Ancient Greeks and Romans and Rule of Law “We do not permit a man to rule, but the law” -Aristotle

Before Greek Democracy Before Democracy- wealthy aristocrats ruled Made rules and laws to serve their own self- interests

Democracy DEMO- People CRACY- Rule Literally- rule by the people (if you were a land-owning, non-slave, non-foreign, adult male).

Greek and US Democracies- Similarities United States Only free adult men could vote (excluded slaves and women) Divided government into different branches Originally, only free adult men could vote (excluded slaves and women). Has 3 branches of government

Greek and US Democracy- Differences Greek Democracy American Democracy Only land-owning, adult men could vote Direct democracy The men of the governing council were selected by lottery Judicial branch consisted of lay- people All male and female citizens can vote Representative democracy Elected officials Judicial branch consists of legal professionals

Greek Rule of Law Laws were universal and accessible to all Laws were to provide equity among the classes- not to favor the rich

Greek Rule of Law Purpose of laws were to advance the common good in society Laws came from popular consent Separated power in order to prevent tyranny or too much power in the hands of few

Roman Republic The Greek Empire crumbled, taking democracy down with it Romans established a Republic that was “tripartite”- divided into 3 branches The branches ensured checks and balances, much like today

Roman Contribution to Rule of Law The Twelve Tables- first Roman laws written and displayed in order to ensure that they were applied fairly. An early constitution. In Ancient Greece, judiciary branch was run by common people. Romans invented the “legal profession” or “jurist.” These people studied, communicated, understood, and taught the laws Judicial Courts were well established, complex, and practiced impartiality

Roman Civic Duties Roman citizen were expected to participate in civic duties for the betterment of society These activities including participating in the economy, volunteering in the community and protected the Roman Republic when needed.

Sources http://worldjusticeproject.org/sites/default/files/history_and_importance_of_t he_rule_of_law.pdf https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athenian_democracy http://classroom.synonym.com/democracy-ancient-greece-different-us- 6700.html http://www.courts.ca.gov/civics-teachers.htm