Battle of Salamis: What Happened
In September 480 BC, the Greek fleet destroyed much of the Persian navy in the narrow straits between the island of Salamis and the coast of Attica, in one of the most important naval battles in history. After the fall of Thermopylae and the burning of Athens, the Greek allies argued about whether to retreat to the Peloponnese. The Athenian leader Themistocles insisted on fighting in the straits, where the larger Persian fleet could not use its numbers. According to Herodotus, he even sent a secret message to Xerxes, tricking the king into attacking. With around 370 ships, the Greeks faced a Persian fleet that may have been twice as large. As the Persian ships crowded into the narrow waters, they lost formation and collided with each other, while the heavier Greek triremes rammed them. Xerxes watched the disaster from a throne on the shore. After the defeat, he returned to Asia, leaving part of his army behind. Salamis saved Greece from conquest and turned Athens into the leading naval power of the Greek world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the Battle of Salamis?
The Greeks won a decisive naval victory over the Persian fleet of Xerxes in September 480 BC, in the narrow straits between the island of Salamis and the coast of Attica.
Why was the Battle of Salamis so important?
Salamis saved Greece from Persian conquest. After the defeat, Xerxes returned to Asia, and the victory made Athens the leading naval power in the Greek world.
How did Themistocles win at Salamis?
Themistocles insisted on fighting in the narrow straits, where the larger Persian fleet lost its advantage. According to Herodotus, he also tricked Xerxes into attacking with a secret message.
Who was Artemisia at Salamis?
Artemisia I, queen of Halicarnassus, commanded ships in the Persian fleet. Herodotus says she advised Xerxes not to fight and escaped the battle by ramming a friendly ship.
Where is Salamis today?
Salamis, known today as Salamina, is an island in the Saronic Gulf, just west of Piraeus. It is easily reached by a short ferry ride from Perama.
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