In Nebraska we have found the ruins of a Carthaginian fort and trading post. English mines are known to have sent tin south in Phonecian ships. The prosperity of this monopoly in trade enriched Tyre, the king and his citizens. This prosperity in time corrupted and depraved the rulers and people. Like many of our modern economic managers, the people of Tyre actually believed their prosperity came from their own genius.
Several commentators agree in their analysis of the essential problem in Tyre.
You see, these Tyreans worshiped not the old pagan gods, but the commercial genius and success gained under the rule of her commerce kings. This is the very same commercial emphasis of the New Agers today. Tyre only preceded Rome in its self-conceit. You will be but a man, not a god. And will not most people vote for leaders who promise to restore that portion of the American Dream.