What role did the helots play in Spartan society?

The helots were a crucial part of Spartan society, primarily performing the role of farmers bound to the land. They were essentially an enslaved population that came from conquered territories, particularly from Messenia and Laconia. Because Spartan citizens, known as Spartiates, were heavily involved in military training and warfare, they relied on the helots to handle agricultural production and other labor-intensive tasks necessary for sustaining the city-state. This system allowed Spartans to focus on their militaristic lifestyle, but it also created a situation where the helots could sometimes resist or revolt against their harsh treatment, which was a constant concern for Spartan leaders. Their status as bound agricultural workers enabled the Spartans to maintain their societal structure, which prioritized military excellence and discipline over economic productivity.