When was the Greek alphabet invented?

The Greek alphabet was invented c. 8th century BCE.

Where did the Greek alphabet come from?

The Greek alphabet was derived from the Phoenician script of 22 characters without vowels. The Greek alphabet added vowels and two letters bringing the script up to 24 letters.

Why is it called an "alphabet"?

The Greek alphabet is so-called from the first two characters in the system: alpha (A) and beta (B).

What was the impact of the Greek alphabet?

The Greek alphabet allowed for the development of Greek culture on every level. It was adopted by the Etruscans, who then transmitted it to the Romans, who developed Latin script, which became the basis for modern-day alphabetic script and enabled the written word as it is presently known.

Timeline: Greek Alphabet

Definition

The Greek Alphabet developed from the Phoenician script at some point around the 8th century BCE. The earlier Mycenaean Linear B script, used primarily for lists and inventories, had been lost during the Greek Dark Age, and the technology of the written word remained unavailable until the invention of the alphabet, which influenced the later Latin script.

More about: Greek Alphabet

Timeline

1100 BCE
Phoenician alphabet.
c. 800 BCE - c. 700 BCE
Greek Alphabet is derived from Phoenician script and develops; used in writing Iliad & Odyssey.
c. 740 BCE
Oldest known Greek alphabetic inscriptions ever recorded.
403 BCE
Athens takes the initiative of unifying the Greek alphabet.

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