Sparta had one of the most respected and fiercest fighting forces of their era. Daily life in ancient Sparta supported the military machine to the point where all other aspects of life revolved around it. From the time a Spartan was born to their death, they served the state and its armed forces. Spartans had to be perfect, both in society and on the battlefield. Their civilization worked as a military unit, preparing both men and women to be their best for whatever challenges they faced.