Rhodes (continued)
In the period of Alexander and Diadoche (336-43 BCE) the rising tensions in the region forced great investment into a maritime fleet and produced protection and far-reaching prosperity. Rhodes was independent from 327 BCE when the Macedonian guard was removed and concentrated on an effective port, maritime law, and rescue service on the seas. A school of sculpture was developed and exported works abroad (Colossus of Rhodes* by Chares of Lindos - one of the seven "wonders of the world"; the "victory of Samothrace by Pythekritos; and Laocoon - now in the Vatican). The island was attacked in 304 BCE unsuccessfully, but had to recover from an earthquake in 277 BCE. By 200 BCE, it was a regular stop for the Roman fleet. [*The Colossus was probably built at 100 to 150 feet high in 302-290 BCE, but fell into the harbor during an earthquake in about 226 BCE, and was finally scrapped in 657 CE.]
 
The Roman Period (43 BCE-300 CE) brought destruction and reconstruction. Rhodes was not always constant in its loyalty to Rome. When opposed Rome, Rome retaliated by offering additional funding to Delos as a port (166 BCE) giving mainland Caria and Lycia an alternative port for trade. This crushed Rhodes economically and forced her to ally herself to Rome. In one raid, Gaius Cassius captured and laid waste to the city of Rhodes (now the capital). Paul harbored there (though most believe at Lindos) in about 57 CE (Acts 21:1). There is no record of any missionary work by Paul on this island. By that time Rhodes had diminished considerably to a small port but retained its beauty and marks of former prosperity as well as some important schools. Great Roman students taught on the island included Cicero, Lucretius, Julius Caesar, Tiberius Caesar and Marc Antony. Diocletian declared it a province in 297 CE.

Much later, the Crusader Period (1000-1450 CE) brought a period of stability (and building) to the island. In 1309 it fell into the hands of the Knights of St. John and became again a maritime power - symbolized by its magnificent medieval town and castle with the Palace of the Grand Masters. This period lasted until the fall under Sulieman II in 1522 CE. The buildings of the period mimic the buildings of Avignon, France. Likely this period also saw the creation of the Rhodes faience (brilliant enamels on ceramic plates probably originated in Lindos - or borrowed technology from Nicea).
 
  In the Modern Period (1830-present) the island was taken in 1911 by the Italians (from the Turks) and they annexed it to protect the route to African colonies. They were responsible for much of the restoration on the island seen today. It was occupied by Germans from 1943-45, taken by the British, and made part of Greece on 7 March 1948.