L2 LESSONS FROM ANTIQUITY

The text shows that some historical figures questioned democracy, calling it 'mob rule.' Which modern idea best shows a similar concern about allowing 'the people' too much direct power?

• People voting directly on all new laws.
• A system with elected leaders to make decisions.
• Having a strong and independent court system.
• Allowing citizens to protest government actions peacefully.

A student states, 'The US Founding Fathers fully supported pure democracy from the very beginning.' Based on the reading, why is this claim incorrect?

• The Founding Fathers actually wanted a monarchy.
• They believed democracy was as dangerous as a single ruler.
• They only supported democracy for the wealthy.
• They thought democracy was too slow to make decisions.

The text describes how Founding Fathers like Hamilton, Adams, and Madison viewed democracy as dangerous. What common concern were they most likely expressing?

• They thought democracy would make the country too rich too quickly.
• They worried it would be too difficult to get people to vote.
• They were concerned about too many people having a say, possibly leading to disorder.
• They feared it would lead to too much individual freedom.

According to the text, what is a city-state?

• A large country with many cities.
• A city that controls all trade routes.
• A city that is also the political center for its area.
• A small village ruled by a council.

Based on early Athenian democracy, what can you infer about who had the most political power?

• Rich women and foreigners.
• All people living in Athens.
• Only free male citizens.
• Slaves and the poor.

Draco's laws in Athens were known for being what?

• Harsh and criticized by both rich and poor.
• Very soft and easy to follow.
• Only for the rich and powerful.
• Fair and balanced for all citizens.

What major change did Solon's reforms bring regarding debt in Athens?

• They allowed citizens to be sold into slavery for any crime.
• They made it illegal for citizens to take out loans.
• They gave more power to the rich over the poor.
• They stopped citizens from being sold into slavery for debt.

In the reading, what does "republic" most nearly mean?

• A government where representatives are chosen to make decisions.
• A government where people vote on every single law directly.
• A government where only the wealthiest citizens can participate.
• A government where a king has all the power.

The US government has a president and elected representatives. Based on the reading, what type of government is this most like?

• An ancient monarchy.
• Ancient Athenian direct democracy.
• The Roman Republic.
• An ancient tyranny.

Why did Romans build "checks and balances" into their government?

• To allow the military to have total power.
• To elect a single, powerful king.
• To make sure one person could not control everything.
• To give more power to the plebeians.