22. Describe the political structure of the Phoenicians.

Kingship was the oldest form of the Phoenician government. The royal houses claimed divine descent, and the king could not be chosen outside their members or royalty. But the kings power was limited by merchant families, who had a great influence on public affairs. Associated with the king was a council of elders; such at least was the case at Byblos, Sidon, and perhaps Tyre.