The book examines the social structure of ancient Sparta. The main social categories of Spartan society are analyzed: spartiates, periecs and helots. The historical conditions for the formation of the Spartan policy (Lacedaemon) and the natural, geographical and economic conditions for the existence of this policy are also considered. The appendix to the book contains: "Lacedaemon Politics" by Xenophon (translated by G. A. Yanchevetsky with corrections and notes. A.V. Zaykova); a map of the southern Peloponnese; chronological table of Spartan history.