Themistocles' Naval Law: What Happened
In 483 BC, Athenian miners struck a rich new vein of silver at Laurion, south of Athens. Many citizens expected the windfall to be shared among them, but the statesman Themistocles persuaded the assembly to spend it on building a fleet instead. He argued that Athens needed warships to fight its island rival Aegina, but many historians believe he was really preparing for a new Persian invasion, which he expected after the defeat at Marathon. The money paid for around 200 triremes, fast warships rowed by about 170 oarsmen each. This decision transformed Athens. By the time King Xerxes invaded Greece in 480 BC, Athens had the largest navy in the Greek world. Those ships formed the core of the Greek fleet that defeated Persia at the Battle of Salamis, saving Greece from conquest. The navy also changed Athenian politics. Because the rowers came from the poorer classes, their role in defending the city gave ordinary citizens greater influence, strengthening democracy. The fleet later became the foundation of Athenian power and empire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Themistocles' Naval Law?
In 483 or 482 BC, Themistocles persuaded the Athenians to use a rich new silver find at Laurion to build a fleet of around 200 warships instead of sharing the money among citizens.
Who was Themistocles?
Themistocles was an Athenian statesman and general who built up Athens' navy and led the Greek fleet to victory at Salamis in 480 BC. He was later ostracized and ended his life in Persian service.
What is a trireme?
A trireme was a fast ancient warship powered by about 170 rowers arranged in three rows. It attacked enemy ships by ramming them with a bronze ram at the front.
Where are the Laurion silver mines?
The Laurion mines are in southeastern Attica, near modern Lavrio. They were a major source of wealth for ancient Athens, and the area now has a mining museum and ancient remains.
Why was Themistocles' Naval Law important?
The fleet it created won the Battle of Salamis and saved Greece from Persian conquest. It also made Athens the leading naval power in Greece and strengthened democracy, as poorer citizens rowed the ships.
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