Ch 27: Life in Two City-States: Athens & Sparta

What is the meaning of "oligarchy" as used in Spartan government?

• Rule by a few people

• Rule by one person

• Rule by the people

• Rule by religious leaders

Answer explanation

In Spartan government, "oligarchy" refers to "rule by a few people," as power was concentrated in the hands of a small elite, contrasting with other forms of governance like democracy or monarchy.

What is the "agora" in ancient Athens?

• A marketplace

• A government building

• A religious temple

• A military training ground

Answer explanation

The "agora" in ancient Athens was primarily a marketplace where citizens gathered for commerce, socializing, and political discussions, making it a central hub of Athenian life.

What does "economy" refer to in ancient city-states?

• System of trade and production

• Type of government

• School system

• Army structure

Answer explanation

In ancient city-states, "economy" refers to the system of trade and production, encompassing how goods and services were created and exchanged, which was vital for their survival and growth.

Who were the "helots" in Sparta?

• Conquered people forced to farm

• Wealthy landowners

• Spartan citizens

• Foreign traders

Answer explanation

The helots were the subjugated population in Sparta, primarily consisting of conquered peoples who were forced to work the land and farm for the Spartan citizens, making them essential to the economy.

What was the "Council of Elders" in Sparta?

• A small group that made key decisions

• A school for boys

• A group of artists

• A religious order

Answer explanation

The "Council of Elders" in Sparta, known as the Gerousia, was a small group that made key decisions, including legislative and judicial matters, influencing Spartan governance and society.

What does "Assembly" mean in the context of Athenian democracy?

• A group of citizens who vote on laws

• A court of law

• A military squad

• A group of slaves

Answer explanation

In Athenian democracy, the "Assembly" refers to a group of citizens who gather to vote on laws and make decisions regarding governance, distinguishing it from other entities like courts or military groups.

What does the word "citizen" mean in Athens?

• A free man born in Athens

• Any person living in the city

• A male or female voter

• A soldier or general

Answer explanation

In Athens, the term "citizen" specifically referred to a free man born in the city. This definition excludes residents who were not born in Athens, as well as women and non-voters, making "A free man born in Athens" the correct choice.

What does the term "democracy" mean in ancient Athens?

• Rule by the people

• Rule by a king

• Rule by the military

• Rule by religion

Answer explanation

In ancient Athens, "democracy" means "rule by the people." This system allowed citizens to participate directly in decision-making, contrasting with other forms of governance like monarchy or military rule.

What is a "barracks" in Sparta?

• A military housing area

• A school classroom

• A market stand

• A government building

Answer explanation

In Sparta, a "barracks" refers to a military housing area where soldiers lived and trained. This is distinct from other options like classrooms, market stands, or government buildings, making it the correct choice.

What does the word "perioikoi" refer to?

• Free noncitizens who worked in Sparta

• Spartan female citizens

• Greek traveling merchants

• Athenian council members

Answer explanation

The term "perioikoi" refers to free noncitizens in Sparta who were not full citizens but played a crucial role in the economy and military, making the correct answer "Free noncitizens who worked in Sparta."