The Phoenician script is an ancient writing system developed by the Phoenicians, a seafaring civilization that thrived in the Mediterranean around 1200 BCE. This script is significant because it is one of the earliest alphabets, consisting of 22 consonant letters. It was primarily used for trade and communication, allowing the Phoenicians to expand their influence across various regions. The Phoenician script is the ancestor of many modern alphabets, including the Greek and Latin scripts. Its simple and efficient design made it easier to learn and use compared to earlier writing systems, such as cuneiform and hieroglyphics. This innovation played a crucial role in the spread of literacy and culture in the ancient world.