Ancient Greek Terms and Figures

Front

Acropolis

Back

Highest point in the city-state, often with temples

Front

Monarchy

Back

Rule by a king, usually hereditary

Front

Oligarchy

Back

Government in the hands of a small, wealthy group

Front

Polis

Back

Greek city-state

Front

Tholos

Back

Circular burial tomb for Mycenaean kings

Front

Phalanx

Back

Massive formation of heavily armed foot soldiers

Front

Direct democracy

Back

Government by the people, directly involved in decision-making

Front

Delian League

Back

A council formed by Greek city-states for defense

Front

Aristocracy

Back

Government ruled by landholding elites

Front

Hellenistic Era

Back

Greek culture spread through Alexander’s conquests