Why might someone say Greeks were all islanders?

It is incorrect to assume that all Greeks were islanders. While ancient Greek civilization and culture originated in the mainland of Greece, it expanded and influenced nearby islands like Crete, Rhodes, and Cyprus. However, Greece is not exclusively made up of islands. The country has a significant landmass on the Balkan peninsula, which is the mainland territory. Greeks have historically inhabited and thrived in regions such as Macedonia, Thessaly, Attica, the Peloponnese, and several other inland areas of the country.

Ancient Greek civilization and maritime prowess made them skilled seafarers and traders, leading to the establishment of colonies and trading posts around the Mediterranean and Black Sea regions. However, these colonies and settlements did not represent the entirety of the Greek world. Mainland Greece remained the cultural, political, and economic center of the Greek civilization, with city-states like Athens, Sparta, and Thebes playing prominent roles.

The Greek mainland contributed significantly to the intellectual, philosophical, artistic, and architectural achievements that shaped Western civilization. Notable Greek philosophers, mathematicians, scientists, artists, and statesmen hailed from various mainland regions. The idea that Greeks were all islanders oversimplifies the diversity and geographic distribution of Greek civilization.

It's essential to recognize that historical narratives can sometimes overlook the contributions of certain groups or regions within a broader cultural context. While the influence of the Greek islands in maritime activities and trade cannot be denied, it's inaccurate to assume that all Greeks were islanders. The Greek mainland played a crucial role in shaping the rich history and culture of ancient Greece.