Ancient logistics - historical timeline and etymology

Abstract

The phenomenon of logistics has an exceptional genesis. According to the findings presented in this paper, logistics dates back to Late Bronze Age (LBA), to ancient times. The bases for logistics development were an evolution of metrics systems, first of all numerical systems. The grounds of Mesopotamian and Egyptian numerical systems were used for commercial purposes by the Phoenicians. In that time the numbers were not displayed as symbols but as pictures. Primary meaning of the word logos was to count. The etymology of the word logistic was drawn from two words, the counting and the picture or the knowing of "numeracy skills through images". The detailed analysis of the oldest known shipwreck - Uluburun, proved intensive production and commercial activities in the LBA period in the Mediterranean. These activities could be realized only with the support of intensive logistic activities. The analysis of the logistics change, given below, shows that the definition of logistics starts far in the period of BC. The famous Pythagoras was the first logistician to be appointed.