A galley is a type of ancient warship characterized by its primary propulsion system: oars. These vessels were designed to carry multiple rows of crewmen, with each row operating a set of oars to move the ship through the water. The design emphasizes speed and maneuverability, relying on the collective power generated by the crew rather than sail or solely on pole power. Architecturally, galleys featured long, narrow hulls optimized for oar propulsion, often requiring a complementary structure or sail for varying conditions. The technology of the galley represents a significant early development in naval engineering, demonstrating a mastery of physics related to water displacement, hull stability, and harnessing human muscle power for maritime transit.