Please note: This is a companion version & not the original book. Sample Book Insights:#1 The Phoenician cities were not a united political entity until over a thousand years later, when the Romans created the province of Phoenicia. However, despite their weaknesses and the threat posed by the major powers of the Near East, they had long safeguarded their political independence.#2 The Phoenician city states were able to continue their independence and prosperity by being masters of sea. They were able to exchange luxury goods with other states, and they used these goods to transport bulk raw materials back to the Near East.#3 The collapse of the Bronze Age palace societies and the emergence of a free market led to a golden age for the Phoenician city states. The relationship between business and the state was further reinforced by the presence of the patriarchs of the mercantile firms on a powerful council of elders.#4 The Phoenician cities were able to expand their trading networks greatly after they were able to avoid any threats from their neighbors. They began to export luxury goods, such as embroidered garments and cloth dyed in deepest purple.