Questions about Phoenician economy

I would like to ask a few questions regarding a thesis I have been
developing for some years. I realize that most of these questions are
unanswerable, but any information you all can provide would be much
appreciated.

First, what percentage of the Phoenician economy was based on trade?
Were the Phoenicians solely or primarily traders, or did they have much
home-grown economy?

Were the Phoenician cities self-supporting in food production?

Was Phoenician shipping exclusively oar-driven? How far from the coast
did the Phoenician ships travel? How deep were their keels?

What percentage of the Phoenician population was literate? Especially,
what percentage of the upper strata of Phoenician society was literate?

Was Phoenican colonization a response to population pressure, as was
partially the case with Greek colonization later, or was it solely to
establish trading stations?

As I say, any comments here are welcome.

.

Relevant Pages

  • Re: Questions about Phoenician economy
    ... Tyre was used primarily for growing tradable things. ... what percentage of the upper strata of Phoenician society was literate? ... What may perhaps be more useful to you is my references. ...
    (soc.history.ancient)
  • Re: Questions about Phoenician economy
    ... Tyre was used primarily for growing tradable things. ... what percentage of the upper strata of Phoenician society was literate? ... What may perhaps be more useful to you is my references. ...
    (soc.history.ancient)