Exploring Athenian Democracy

What is Athenian democracy?

• Athenian democracy allowed only wealthy landowners to vote.

• Athenian democracy is a form of direct democracy practiced in ancient Athens, allowing citizens to participate directly in political decision-making.

• Athenian democracy was a monarchy established in ancient Greece.

• Athenian democracy was a system where decisions were made by a small group of elites.

Who was eligible to participate in Athenian democracy?

• Free female citizens of Athens aged 18 and older.

• Male citizens of other city-states aged 18 and older.

• Slaves and free women of Athens aged 18 and older.

• Free male citizens of Athens aged 18 and older.

What was the role of the Assembly in Athenian democracy?

• The Assembly served as a court for legal disputes.

• The Assembly was responsible for military training of citizens.

• The Assembly was the main decision-making body in Athenian democracy, where citizens voted on laws and policies.

• The Assembly was a religious institution that organized festivals.

How did Athenian democracy differ from modern democracy?

• Athenian democracy was direct and exclusive, while modern democracy is representative and inclusive.

• Athenian democracy included all residents of Athens, while modern democracy excludes certain groups.

• Athenian democracy allowed all citizens to vote on every issue, while modern democracy limits voting to representatives.

• Modern democracy is based on a monarchy system, whereas Athenian democracy was purely democratic.

What was the significance of the Council of 500?

• The council was responsible for collecting taxes from citizens.

• The Council of 500 was significant for promoting democracy and citizen participation in ancient Athens.

• It was a military council that planned invasions.

• It served as a religious advisory board for the city.

What was the practice of ostracism in Athens?

• Ostracism was a method of public voting on laws.

• Ostracism in Athens was a practice of exiling individuals for ten years to protect democracy.

• Ostracism was a practice of appointing leaders for life.

• Ostracism involved punishing individuals with fines.

How were decisions made in Athenian democracy?

• Decisions were made by direct vote in the Assembly, with proposals from citizens and majority rule.

• Proposals were only accepted from wealthy citizens, excluding the majority.

• All decisions were made by a single ruler without public voting.

• Decisions were made by a council of elders with no citizen input.

What were the limitations of Athenian democracy?

• Athenian democracy excluded women, slaves, and non-citizens, relied on direct participation, and was susceptible to the influence of the wealthy.

• Athenian democracy was a representative system with elected officials.

• Athenian democracy included all residents regardless of status.

• Athenian democracy allowed women to vote and participate equally.

Who were the key figures in the development of Athenian democracy?

• Solon, Cleisthenes, and Pericles

• Socrates, Aristotle, and Plato

• Hippocrates, Thucydides, and Xenophon

• Alexander, Demosthenes, and Herodotus

What impact did Athenian democracy have on later political systems?

• Athenian democracy promoted monarchy as a political system.

• Athenian democracy influenced later political systems by establishing foundational democratic principles such as citizen participation, equality, and civic responsibility.

• Athenian democracy was solely focused on military power.

• Athenian democracy had no influence on modern governance.