Why did the Spartans invade Messenia?

The Spartans invaded Messenia primarily to secure land for agriculture and resources to support their growing population. The invasion, which began in the 8th century BCE, led to the subjugation of the Messenians, who became serfs known as helots. This conquest allowed Sparta to establish a strong economic base and maintain its militaristic society, as the helots provided the necessary labor for Spartan citizens to focus on warfare and training. The ongoing tension between Spartans and helots was a critical aspect of Spartan society and military strategy.