The Persian Wars Trireme

a greek trireme

athens @ time embroiled in conflict neighbouring island of aegina, possessed formidable navy. in order counter this, , possibly eye @ mounting persian preparations, in 483/2 bc athenian statesman themistocles used political skills , influence persuade athenian assembly start construction of 200 triremes, using income of newly discovered silver mines @ laurion. first clash persian navy @ battle of artemisium, both sides suffered great casualties. however, decisive naval clash occurred @ salamis, xerxes invasion fleet decisively defeated.

after salamis , greek victory on persian fleet @ mycale, ionian cities freed, , delian league formed under aegis of athens. gradually, predominance of athens turned league athenian empire. source , foundation of athens power strong fleet, composed of on 200 triremes. not secured control of aegean sea , loyalty of allies, safeguarded trade routes , grain shipments black sea, fed city s burgeoning population. in addition, provided permanent employment city s poorer citizens, fleet played important role in maintaining , promoting radical athenian form of democracy. athenian maritime power first example of thalassocracy in world history. aside athens, other major naval powers of era included syracuse, corfu , corinth.

in subsequent peloponnesian war, naval battles fought triremes crucial in power balance between athens , sparta. despite numerous land engagements, athens defeated through destruction of fleet during sicilian expedition, , finally, @ battle of aegospotami, @ hands of sparta , allies.