Section 2 Greece is the birthplace of democracy. Comes from the Greek words meaning “rule of the people” In early Athens kings ruled the city-states. Later rich land owners or aristocrats took power. Oligarchy- few people have the power Aristocrats dominated Athenian society

Cont.. Served as generals and judges Common people had little to say. Draco-created a new set of laws for Athens that were extremely harsh. Solon-created laws that were much less harsh Under Solon’s laws all free men living in Athens became citizens

Cont… In 546 BC A noble named Peisistratus overthrew the oligarchy. He became the ruler of Athens. He was what is called a tyrant. He held his power through use of force. He brought peace and prosperity to Greece.

Government in Athens Oligarchy Tyranny Democracy

Democracy in Action 500 BC Cleisthenes gained power in Athens. Didn’t want aristocrats to run the government. He developed the world’s first democracy. He is called the father of democracy. Under his power all citizens had the right to participate in the assembly that made the city’s laws.

Cont… Citizens began serving on juries to decide court cases. Juries of around 500 were common and had an odd number of members to prevent ties.

Pericles Athens remained a democracy for 170 years. It reached its height under a leader named Pericles. He believed that participating in government was just as important as defending the city in war. He began to pay people to serve in public offices or on juries.

End of Democracy In 330 BC it all came to end when Athens was conquered by the Macedonians located north of Greece. Athens kept its democracy but with very limited powers. The Macedonian king was a dictator who held all the power. No one could make any decisions without his approval.

Direct Democracy All citizens could participate directly in government. Each person’s vote directly effects the outcome of a vote. Majority ruled. Only men voted The US is too large for direct democracy. The US participates in Representative Democracy.

Representative Democracy Citizens elect representatives to debate and vote on issues for them. We have a separation of powers. Some people create laws, others enforce laws, and others are judges. Men and women have the right to vote.