The Sea Peoples were likely an amalgamation of Mediterranean cultures, whose shipbuilding and warfare technologies allowed them to influence much of the coastal areas, just not as proactively or positively as the Minoans. It is likely that the Minoan culture, in fact, was hindered by a large volcanic eruption and subsequent earthquake and tidal wave, disrupting their ability for commerce. However, recent evidence suggests that although these disasters weakened the culture, it was likely the Sea Peoples who landed on the island, burned selected buildings and palaces, and looted the civilization of the best it had to offer. Similarly, the Sea Peoples appear to have assimilated into a number of Mediterranean cultures (Parkinson & Galaty (eds.) 2010). Works Cited

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