Lords of the Sea : The Epic Story of the Athenian Navy and the Birth of Democracy

John R Hale
Penguin Books
 9780143117681
0-14-311768-8

The epic true story ofThemistocles and the Battle of Salamis, and arousing history of the world's first dominant navy and the towering empire it builtThe Athenian Navy was one of the finest fighting forces.

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in the history of the world. It engineered a civilization, empowered the world's first democracy, and led a band of ordinary citizens on a voyage of discovery that altered the course of history. With Lords of the Sea, renowned archaeologist John R. Hale presents, for the first time, the definitive history of the epic battles, the fearsome ships, and the men-from extraordinary leaders to seductive rogues-that established Athens's supremacy. With a scholar's insight and a storyteller's flair, Hale takes us on an unforgettable voyage with these heroes, their turbulent careers, and far-flung expeditions, bringing back to light a forgotten maritime empire and its majestic legacy.