Answer: Phoenicians
Some extra relevant information:
The Greek alphabet, which is widely known and utilized even today, originated from an earlier writing system known as the Phoenician alphabet. The Phoenicians were an ancient civilization that thrived along the eastern Mediterranean coast, primarily in what is now modern-day Lebanon. They had a significant influence on the development of writing systems throughout the Mediterranean region.
The Phoenician alphabet was a consonantal writing system consisting of 22 letters. It was simple and efficient, representing only the consonant sounds of the Phoenician language. This alphabet spread through trade and communication networks and was adopted by various cultures in the ancient world, including the Greeks.
When the Greeks encountered the Phoenician alphabet around the 9th century BCE, they adapted it to suit their own language, which included vowels. The Greek people added vowel symbols to the existing Phoenician consonantal characters, thus creating a more comprehensive and versatile writing system.
The adoption of the Phoenician alphabet by the Greeks played a crucial role in the preservation and dissemination of knowledge. It facilitated the recording and transmission of literature, historical accounts, scientific discoveries, philosophical ideas, and cultural heritage. The Greek alphabet proved to be adaptable and widely adopted, eventually becoming the foundation for many other alphabets, including the Latin alphabet used in English and many other languages.
The Greek alphabet’s enduring legacy can be seen in its continued use in various domains. It is employed in mathematics and science to represent variables and constants, and Greek letters are frequently used in fraternity and sorority names, as well as symbols in various fields of study.
In conclusion, the Greek alphabet originated from the Phoenician alphabet, which the Greeks modified and expanded upon to suit their language’s unique characteristics. Its adoption and subsequent dissemination played a significant role in the preservation and advancement of knowledge throughout history. The Greek alphabet’s influence can still be observed in modern-day usage, highlighting its remarkable endurance and adaptability.