Democracy in Athens

Before Democracy Greek city-states were ruled by oligarchies Oligarchies – Political power is held by a small group (traditionally aristocrats) Rise of phalanx – Earlier times the outcome of battles deepened on fights between individual aristocrats – Phalanx= heavily armed foot soldiers Moved together with overlapping shields No longer did a soldier need a horse to be successful in battle More men participate in battle and demanded a voice in government

Before Democracy Tyranny

Power of the People Beginning of Democracy – Democracy= “rule by the people” – 594 B.C.E. King Solon elected by aristocrats to lead Athens Ended the practice of selling poor into slavery Gave some non-aristocrats men the right to vote for officials Later Reforms – 508 B.C.E Cleisthenes came to power in Athens and made several reforms to reduce power of the rich Increased number of citizens Increased power of law making body which included all citizens – 461 B.C.E. citizen juries Citizens would now hear evidence and legal decisions we put in the hands of the people

Power to the People The age of Pericles – 450 B.C.E. more reforms followed Citizens were compensated for participating in government activities Education for democracy – Most education was reserved for boys in Athens Taught music, literature, and physical education to produce well rounded citizens who could participate in public life

Athenian Democracy at Work Political reforms produced a gold age of democracy in Athens. Citizens ran all parts of the government The assembly – All free adult male citizens had the right to attend – Meetings took place 40 times a year – Everyone could speak The council – 500 members – Decided which issues should come before the assembly – Chosen by the assembly

Athenian Democracy at Work The courts – Decided cases – Juries made up of citizens decided guilt A limited democracy – Women could not vote or hold office – Slaves had no rights – Foreigners could not be citizens

Athenian Democracy at Work Direct democracy – Citizens voted in person on issues – Each vote is counted – Athens was a direct democracy Representative democracy – Citizens elect other to represent them in government