Ancient Greek Terms and Concepts

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Direct Democracy

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A system of government in which citizens participate directly rather than through elected officials.

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Acropolis

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Greek word that means 'High City' - Hilltop fortress of ancient Greek city-states.

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Polis

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Greek word meaning city-state.

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City-State

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A political unit made up of a city and surrounding lands.

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Athens

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Ancient Greek city, birthplace of democracy.

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Monarchy

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Form of government in which a king or queen exercises central power.

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Oligarchy

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A type of government ruled by an elite few. Usually merchants and business people.

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Sparta

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Greek city state, greatest military power of Greece.

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Parthenon

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A temple on the Athenian Acropolis in Greece, dedicated to the Greek Goddess Athena.

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Golden Age

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A time in society when a civilization experiences peace and prosperity and when cultural advancements are made.