Ancient Athens and the Foundations of Direct Democracy

The video explores the differences between representative government and ancient Athenian democracy, focusing on the unique aspects of Athenian direct democracy. It explains the lot system used to select magistrates and other officials, highlighting the checks and balances in place to prevent incompetence. The video also contrasts elected and lot offices, detailing the roles of the council and courts. It concludes by discussing the legislative powers of the nomotetai and the broader implications of direct democracy in Athens.

What is a key difference between representative government and ancient Athenian democracy?

• Athenian democracy had no role for the assembly.

• Representative government allows all citizens to vote.

• Representative government uses lot for selection.

• Athenian democracy involved direct participation of citizens.

How were magistrates selected in ancient Athens?

• By inheritance

• By appointment from the elite

• By drawing lots

• By popular vote

What was a limitation placed on magistrates in ancient Athens?

• They could not serve in the same role twice in a lifetime.

• They could be re-elected immediately.

• They had legislative power.

• They could serve for life.

Which of the following was a characteristic of elected offices in ancient Athens?

• They were only for the military.

• They were not monitored.

• They were annual but could be held multiple times.

• They were filled by lot.

What was the primary role of magistrates in ancient Athens?

• To make major political decisions

• To perform administrative and executive tasks

• To oversee the assembly

• To lead military campaigns

How was membership of the council, the bulle, determined?

• By inheritance

• By election

• By appointment

• By lot

What was the heliastai in ancient Athens?

• A military unit

• A group of judges and jurors

• A legislative body

• A council of elders

What was the role of the nomotetai in ancient Athens?

• To manage finances

• To lead military operations

• To revise and finalize laws

• To propose new laws

What distinguished a law from a decree in ancient Athens?

• Laws were temporary.

• Decrees were proposed by citizens.

• Decrees were more legitimate.

• Laws were written and had lasting validity.

What does the study of ancient Athenian democracy reveal about direct democracy?

• Institutions other than citizens held significant power.

• All citizens held equal power.

• It was identical to modern representative democracy.

• It involves no representation.