The etymology of the word “logistics” points to ancient Greece. In the Ancient Greek language, the semantic scope of this term is outlined by such expressions as: logistikon (power of reason), logistike (the art of calculating), logos (word, reason, counting), logistikos (rational). In the 5th century BC, in ancient Greece, logistics was initially associated with the civil sphere. In the context of the Greek administration, finance, and economy of that time, one can encounter various names for functions performed, such as: logistae, logeutai, eklogeis, to whom specific scopes of responsibilities and tasks were assigned.
Logistae
The functions of logistae were performed by persons elected by vote (show of hands), and in a later period – by lot. Initially, 30 logistae were elected, and later only 10, who were supported by 10 euthyni (and their 20 assessors), also drawn by lot from each Athenian community. Logistae were the highest authority controlling financial and property matters.
In ancient Athens, public figures were obliged to submit financial reports (accounts) regarding their activities under penalty of expiration of their term in the position held in the administration or cessation of performing their current function. This rule was applied to judges, priests, trierarchs, ambassadors, etc., and thus to all persons who not only dealt directly with public money but also indirectly – managed even a part of public property or financial resources. Persons holding positions or performing functions not related in any way to the expenditure of public money submitted to the logistae only statements in which they confirmed this fact.
The received accounts were verified by the logistae or forwarded for detailed inspection to their associates, who focused on the analysis of specific issues. After checking, the accounts were provided with an appropriate commentary discussing the legitimacy of the expenses incurred. It confirmed the correctness of financial operations or questioned their validity, or even accused the persons responsible for their expenditure of embezzlement. If the submitted reports did not raise any doubts, the logistae, after publicly announcing this fact, allowed the person to hold their current position or continue fulfilling the entrusted function.
As long as the accounts were not approved, the person responsible for them could not leave the country or accept any position in the administration. Furthermore, they were deprived of full civil rights and immunities.
The article comes from the magazine “Logistyka” 1/2010.