The term "Seven Seas" originated with the ancient Romans.
The concept of the "Seven Seas" has evolved over time and been used to describe different sets of bodies of water throughout history. However, based on historical context often cited, the ancient Romans are credited with using the term septem maria (Latin for "seven seas") to refer to the complex system of lagoons separated from the open sea near Venice.
The Origin of the Term
According to the Library of Congress, the term has roots in antiquity:
- The ancient Romans called the lagoons separated from the open sea near Venice the septem maria or seven seas.
This early usage referred to a specific, localized geographical feature.
Modern Interpretations of the Seven Seas
While the origin of the term is linked to Roman times and the Venetian lagoons, the phrase "Seven Seas" is more commonly understood today as referring to a specific collection of Earth's major water bodies.
Most current sources, as noted by the Library of Congress, define the seven seas differently:
- Most current sources state that “seven seas” referred to the Indian Ocean, Black Sea, Caspian Sea, Adriatic Sea, Persian Gulf, Mediterranean Sea, and the Red Sea.
This list represents a broader, more global perspective than the original Roman usage.
| Interpretation | What it Refers To | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Roman Usage | Lagoons near Venice (septem maria) | Ancient Romans |
| Common Modern Definition | Indian Ocean, Black Sea, Caspian Sea, etc. (as listed) | Various historical/cultural contexts |
In summary, while the specific bodies of water included in the "Seven Seas" list have varied throughout history and across cultures, the term itself, septem maria or seven seas, is historically attributed to the ancient Romans in their description of the Venetian lagoons.
