The Decisive Battles of World History

Lecture 6: 31 B.C. Actium—Birth of the Roman Empire

Casson, Ships and Seamanship in the Ancient World.

Gurval, Actium and Augustus.

Morrison, et al., Athenian Trireme.

Sheppard, Actium 31 BC.

1. Why do you think naval combat centering on oared galleys remained so
   constant in the Mediterranean for so many thousands of years?


2. What key mistakes did Anthony make that contributed to his defeat at
   Actium, and which one was the worst?

Suggested Reading

Questions to Consider