The Legacy of Ancient Greece How did Ancient Athens influence Western Democracy?

Greek City-States Around 2000 BC, the Greeks established cities along the coastline Each city was like its own country (City-States) Most Greek City-States had one of the following types of gov. 1. Monarchy Ruled by a king (absolute rule) Hereditary (born into/family) Power to rule comes from God – Divine Right 2. Aristocracy Ruled by rich, important families (nobles) Hereditary Power comes from wealth/status

History of Democracy – Solon the Reformer Athens, most powerful city-state was an Aristocracy Landowners force farmers into slavery to pay debt 1. Solon writes a law outlawing slavery based on debt 3. Oligarchy/Tyranny Rule based on wealth, ability, or control of military If one powerful person gains control becomes tyranny Not hereditary

2. Solon establishes citizenship based on four “classes” (wealth) Top three classes can hold public office, fourth class can only vote Only free adult males born in Athens were “citizens” 1/10 of Athens total population Athens uses branches of Govt. Council of 500 = Executive Branch Jury system = Judicial Branch Cleisthenes allows 4th class to hold public office, leaders chosen by lottery (Council of 500) Pericles Pays people in govt, more Athenians can participate in government Athens becomes a direct democracy as citizens rule & make laws directly Assembly of citizens = Legislative Br

Trial by Jury – Athens Style A.How big were juries in Athens? B.How was a jury selected? C.What was the difference between a hollow and solid disk? D.Answer Question #1 on page 9 E.Answer Question #2 on page 9