Were Phoenicians the main component of the Persian navy?

When the Persian navy was established, yes, most people in the navy were Phoenicians and the first ships were built in the city of Sidon which is located in Lebanon today. read more

Phoenician Ships. The best seafarers and ship builders of the ancient world were the Phoenicians. The famous Lebanese cedar tress covering the slopes of mountains of their native land was a perfect material for construction of strong seaworthy ships. read more

The Phoenicians had retained their trading and sea power and were a major part of the Persian navy. The Hebrews remained agricultural and were such a source of trouble that the aristocracies of both Israel and Judea were deported to Assyria and Babylon respectively, and replaced by foreign ones to keep them quiet. read more