What was the name of the naval alliance formed in 478 B.C.E. that eventually became the Athenian Empire?

The naval alliance that was formed in 478 B.C.E. and eventually became the Athenian Empire is known as the Delian League. This was established by several Greek city-states, primarily aimed at continuing the fight against Persia following the Persian Wars. The Delian League was founded on the island of Delos, where the original treasury was located.

Over time, Athens began to exert greater control over the league, transforming it from a voluntary alliance into an Athenian empire. Member states were required to pay tributes to Athens, and Athens maintained a strong navy to protect the interests of the league. This shift in power dynamics significantly contributed to economic and political dominance in the region, marking the height of Athenian influence in the classical world.

In contrast, the Peloponnesian League, associated with Sparta, was more focused on opposing Athenian expansion; the Corinthian Confederation and Ionian League were not significant alliances formed during this period and did not play a role akin to that of the Delian League in the establishment of Athenian power.