The famous battle characterized by the phrase "an eye for an eye," fought in 490 B.C., is the Battle of Marathon. This significant conflict during the Greco-Persian Wars saw the Athenian army achieve a surprising victory against the much larger Persian forces. The battle showcased the importance of strategy and the resolve of the Athenian city-state. It inspired the legendary run of Pheidippides, symbolizing courage and the fight for freedom against tyranny.