Researcher: Alex Heffner

Presentation Title: Ancient Greek Technology in War

School: Kent State University

Type: Poster Presentation

The purpose of this study was to travel to Athens, Greece and study ancient Greek technology in war on-site in addition to research completed prior to the trip in order to develop the research further with first-hand knowledge and experiences. This study shows the influence the Grecians have had in developing technology as a precursor to contemporary technology, specifically in warfare. The Grecians were one of the first people to figure out how to create some of the earliest technology we have seen in humanity, specifically in warfare. Some of these included, triremes, phalanx or spears, and catapults which were used to assist them in invading their enemies. The Greeks continued to establish new ways to further their country and their culture however they could, and are even responsible for the oldest known analog computer, which tracked the astronomical positions of the planets. There have been several great engineers who have emerged from the Greek culture and went on to influence other cultures, such as, Philon of Byzantium and Heron of Alexandria. Since then we have taken the influence of Greek technology and advanced it decades further into the weaponry and technology we have today. And while we as the United States have advanced technologically in things such as warfare, it all started with the Greeks.