The outcome of the battle at Thermopylae in 480 BC was a Persian victory, despite the valiant defense put up by an alliance of Greek city-states, led by King Leonidas of Sparta. The battle became legendary for the Spartans' bravery, as they held off a vastly larger Persian army for three days in a narrow pass. Although they ultimately fell, their sacrifice became a symbol of heroism and resistance in the face of overwhelming odds.