This is the first full-length study of the financial, logistical, and social organization of the Athenian navy. Using a rich variety of sources, particularly the enormous body of inscriptions that served as naval records, Vincent Gabrielsen examines the development and function of the Athenian trierarchy and revises our understanding of the social, political, and ideological mechanisms of which that institution was a part. He concludes with a discussion of the broader implications of the relationship between Athens' democracy and its wealthiest citizens.

"This is a marvelous book: an original, well-researched, and compelling treatment of the financial organization of the Athenian navy, from which Gabrielsen expands our understanding of the functioning of Athens' democratic government."--Robert Wallace, Northwestern University

"A very valuable book. Gabrielsen offers a comprehensive and careful investigation of the trierarchy which goes beyond the reconstruction of fiscals and military realia to place the institution in its social context."--Greece and Rome

"All will appreciate the significance of Gabrielsen's book, for he has demonstrated, more clearly than his predecessors in the study of the trierarchy, the delicate balance between the state and the 'private sector' in this supreme military installation."--American Historical Review

Vincent Gabrielsen is a professor of ancient history at the University of Copenhagen.

To meet the enormous expenses of maintaining its powerful navy, democratic Athens gave wealthy citizens responsibility for financing and commanding the fleet. Known as trierarchs--literally, ship commanders--they bore the expenses of maintaining and repairing the ships, as well as recruiting and provisioning their crews. The trierarchy grew into a powerful social institution that was indispensable to Athens and primarily responsible for the city's naval prowess in the classical period.

Financing the Athenian Fleet is the first full-length study of the financial, logistical, and social organization of the Athenian navy. Using a rich variety of sources, particularly the enormous body of inscriptions that served as naval records, Vincent Gabrielsen examines the development and function of the Athenian trierarchy and revises our understanding of the social, political, and ideological mechanisms of which that institution was a part. Exploring the workings, ships, and gear of Athens' navy, Gabrielsen explains how a huge, costly, and highly effective operation was run thanks to the voluntary service and contributions of the wealthy trierarchs. He concludes with a discussion of the broader implications of the relationship between Athens' democracy and its wealthiest citizens.