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

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

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

4. 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

5. 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

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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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.

11. Sources
he_rule_of_law.pdf
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