Athenian Navy How Would You

Athenian Navy

How would you evaluate the use of naval and maritime power by the ancient Athenian navy?

Athens had an outstanding navy that was one of the most powerful in the ancient world. It was created largely, to protect the Greeks against sea attacks from the Persians at the Battle of Salamis in 480 BC. The combined fleet of the Greek city states deceived them into thinking that they were retreating. This caused the Persians to chase the Greeks into the Straight of Salamis. At which point, the Athenian navy played a role, in preventing their retreat and sinking the Persian ships. Their losses were very high with many sailors, who could not swim and their ships lacked any kind of maneuverability.

In this aspect, the use of the Athenian navy required it having tremendous amounts of flexibility. This occurred with sailors and commanders being able to work with others from allied city states. At the same time, they used deception and unorthodox principles to lure the Persians into a trap. This allowed the Greeks to engage them on level where they could utilize their strengths to do the most damage.

After the war was over, many citizens of the Athens were fearful about the Persians building another fleet and renewing hostilities. To handle the costs, the various city states that were allied with Athens formed the Delian League. This is an alliance consisting of 140 city states. The basic objectives were to reduce the high expenses of building / maintaining a navy and ensure that all members received adequate protection.

At first, everyone contributed equally based upon their size and the amounts they can afford. However, as time went by Athens began to require that all states make mandatory contributions of money, resources and personnel. The combination of these factors created hostilities between the different members. Yet, it also allowed the Athenian navy to develop standards of professionalism.

This is when various schools were established that taught sailors and officers the proper techniques for dealing with a variety of maritime issues. Moreover, it also showed them how to effectively engage the enemy. This led to the development of different techniques such as ramming. As the presence of the Athenian navy, meant that there was a focus on those tactics that will benefit everyone the most in battle.

Once they disabled the enemy's ships, is the point when they had a significant advantage. This gives them the element of surprise by utilizing tactics that no one else is expecting. Furthermore, the Athenians continually were drilling for a variety of scenarios and exercises. This helped to better coordinate their fleet and prepare them for different situations they encountered.