Starter Question Please pick-up a slip of paper and answer the following question… In what ways have the ancient Greeks influenced our way of life today? List as many things as you can.

A Democratic Constitution When Peisistratus died, his sons took over as leaders of Athens Not long after, their government was overthrown by the Spartans In 508 B.C., the Spartans were overthrown by a noble named Cleisthenes A year later, Cleisthenes put into effect the world’s first constitution that was democratic, or favoring equality of all people ◦Gave citizens of Athens freedom of speech Cleisthenes opened the Assembly to all males over 20 years old ◦Assembly chose generals for army/navy and judges Athens is known to be the birthplace of democracy

Athens Government The Council of Five Hundred handled the daily business of Athens The names of 500 citizens were drawn from a large pot (chosen by lot) Under the rule of Cleisthenes, citizens were required to educate their sons starting when they were 7 years old When they turned 18, Athenian males became citizens in Athens ◦Took an oath of citizenship to make Athens a better place in front of family and friends

Chart and Skills Activity We will be completing the Chapter 10 Chart and Graph Activity as a group 1. What branch of government sets the agenda for the Assembly? 2. What indicates that the government of Athens was truly democratic? 3. What members of Athenian society could not be part of the government?

Monarchy Definition: A government ruled by a king or queen Where Used: Both Athens and Sparta When Used: 700 B.C. Benefits: 1. One person making laws 2. Consistency 3. Know who the ruler is and the next in line Disadvantages: 1. Few have a say in government 2. Same person ruler

Oligarchy Definition: Government in which a few people rule Where Used: Both Athens and Sparta When Used: Sparta (800 B.C.) Athens (750 B.C.) Benefits: 1. More have a say in government Disadvantages: 1. Only a handful make choices for the community

Democracy Definition: A government favoring equality of all people Where Used: Athens (The birthplace of Democracy) When Used: 508 B.C. Benefits: 1. All citizens have a voice in government 2. Limit of years allowed to serve 3. Change in those in charge Disadvantages: Changes are slow to make

Closing Question On the back of your yellow Forms of Government Chart, explain 1 of the benefits and disadvantages of a Democracy