What was the primary economic basis for Sparta's society?

The primary economic basis for Sparta's society was indeed focused on slave labor and agriculture. The Spartans relied heavily on a class of enslaved individuals known as helots, who were responsible for working the land and producing the food necessary to sustain the Spartan population and its military. This system of agriculture allowed Spartan citizens, particularly the elite warrior class, to devote their lives to military training and governance rather than the labor-intensive activities of farming.

In addition, the fertile lands of Laconia and Messenia provided ample agricultural output, which was crucial for Sparta's self-sufficiency. The use of helots to manage agricultural work and produce surplus food was a key factor that allowed Spartan society to focus on its militaristic and disciplined lifestyle, reinforcing the importance of slave labor in maintaining their economic structure.

Other economic options presented, such as trade and commerce, artisan craft production, and intensive farming only, did play some role in Spartan society but were not the primary basis of its economy. Sparta was relatively insular and less focused on trade compared to other Greek city-states like Athens, prioritizing land and agricultural dominance facilitated by the labor of helots. This distinctive economic foundation significantly shaped Spartan culture and societal structures.