Energy, Economy, and Transport Cost

Abstract

This chapter examines the role of energy in the economic growth of ancient Greece, with particular emphasis on the impact of the cost of transportation. It first considers the different sources of energy in the Greek city-states, including heat generated by the sun, wood, and charcoal, before discussing the question regarding the cost of energy and the economic conditions for using steam engines during the period. It then explains how wind energy contributed to economic development in the ancient Mediterranean world, and especially in the Greek city-states, by dramatically lowering transport costs and transportation cycles. It also explores how connectivity emerged between Mediterranean countries and concludes with an analysis of overland transportation via roads, the role of ships and ports in maritime transportation, navigational techniques and the construction of artificial ports, and projects aimed at digging canals and building portage routes.