Piracy in ancient Hellenic societies: From the beginning to the Hellenistic Period

It is not possible to accurately analyze the economic, cultural, political and social history of the Hellenic civilization without taking into account its maritime activities. Maritime transportation has almost always existed in the Mediterranean, more specifically in the Aegean Sea geography, as a habit or necessity dating back to prehistoric times. The Hellenic Civilization, built on the already existing marine knowledge, developed this tradition and successfully transferred it to the next generations. However, this entire process did not always proceed positively; In addition to natural and geographical opposition, a human opposition also made the maritime transport order unsafe. Although the history of this act of usurpation, which modern people call "piracy", dates back to earlier periods, it was become fully formed in the Hellenic Archaic and Classical periods. Hellenic societies were frequently involved in both active and passive positions regarding piracy activities, and the role played by these activities in some critical periods shaped the history of the Ancient Period. For the Hellenes, piracy was sometimes a means of making a living in times of famine and sometimes a strategy in times of war. Therefore, throughout this historical process, the perception created by piracy among the public has constantly changed. KEYWORDS: Hellen, Piracy, Ships, Trade, Maritime Transportation.