Precious Metals Warfare Theory

Silver first monetized to pay soldiers not replace cumbersome barter

Jon Forrest Little's Precious Metals Warfare Theory offers a compelling alternative perspective on the origins of monetized silver, challenging conventional economic and historical narratives. The theory posits that the first coins, minted from the silver mines of Laurion during the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta, were not primarily created to replace barter systems, but rather to efficiently pay soldiers.

According to Little, the Athenian military strategy of deploying large groups of soldiers, both on land and at sea, necessitated a more practical method of compensation. By using silver coins, Athens could avoid the logistical nightmare of supplying thousands of troops with provisions, clothing, and other necessities. This system allowed soldiers to purchase their own "wine, women, food, and song," as Little colorfully describes it.

The theory suggests that this military application led to the first true monetization of silver. While silver had long been used for decorative and artistic purposes, the creation of portable, standardized coins (such as the famous Athenian owl coin) transformed it into the ideal form of money – divisible, portable, a store of value, and fungible.

Archaeological evidence supports this theory, as silver coins are frequently found in locations where soldiers were stationed. As troops moved, markets emerged to cater to their needs, followed by bureaucrats to regulate trade and ensure quality control. Governments then capitalized on these economic activities through taxation.

Little's theory also offers an intriguing interpretation of religious texts. For instance, it frames Jesus' act of driving money changers from the temple as an anti-war statement, recognizing silver coins as representations of "blood money" derived from military conquests.

The temple in Greco-Roman tradition was placed where Silver was vaulted.

The Precious Metals Warfare Theory extends beyond ancient Greece, suggesting that Rome adopted and expanded upon this model. The quote "Pay the soldiers first and scorn all others," attributed to Severus, encapsulates this prioritization of military funding.

By challenging the traditional narrative that silver currency primarily evolved to replace barter systems, Little's theory provides a new lens through which to view the development of monetary systems and their relationship to warfare and empire-building. It draws a direct line from these ancient practices to later colonization efforts, highlighting how military expansion, resource exploitation, and the enslavement of conquered peoples have been intertwined with monetary systems throughout history.

This perspective offers a thought-provoking reexamination of the roots of our economic systems and their historical connections to warfare and imperialism.