Tides of History Soldiers and Labor Markets in the Hellenistic World: Interview with Dr. Charlotte van Regenmortel
Feb 27, 2025
Dr. Charlotte van Regenmortel, a lecturer in ancient history at the University of Liverpool, dives into the profound economic shifts following Alexander the Great's death. She discusses how the rise of professional armies and wage labor transformed Hellenistic economies. The conversation highlights the transition from conscription to voluntary enlistment, the role of mercenaries, and the evolving economic dynamics shaped by increased warfare. Dr. van Regenmortel reveals fascinating connections between ancient military service and modern labor markets, shedding light on their lasting impacts.
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Economic Impact of Warfare
- Hellenistic warfare dramatically increased in scale and intensity after Alexander the Great's death.
- This transformed the economies of the Hellenistic world, giving rise to the concept of wage labor.
Monetization and Warfare
- The unprecedented levels of monetization in the Hellenistic world were a direct result of war.
- Persian treasuries and continuous circulation fueled this economic shift, impacting landholding and productivity.
Challenges of Studying Hellenistic Economies
- The Hellenistic world saw the emergence of large territorial states and vast distances between cities.
- Studying economic dynamics is challenging due to the scale and movement of people across kingdoms.