hippeis
The hippeis were a social and military class in ancient Greece, particularly prominent in Athens. The term "hippeis" derives from the Greek word for "horse," and literally translates to "horsemen" or "cavalry." This classification was one of the three main classes of Athenian citizens, alongside the pentakosiomedimnoi (the wealthiest) and the zeugitai (yeomen farmers).
Membership in the hippeis was determined by wealth, with individuals needing to possess sufficient resources to
Beyond their military duties, the hippeis also held a significant political role. As a more affluent segment