Pericles and Athenian Democracy

Pericles, a prominent Athenian statesman, played a crucial role in shaping ancient Greece's golden age. He rose to power during a time of political transition and advocated for democratic ideals, implementing reforms that enhanced citizen participation. Under his leadership, Athens experienced a cultural renaissance, with significant investments in arts and architecture, including the construction of the Parthenon. Pericles also led Athens through the Peloponnesian War, employing strategic military defenses. Despite his later years being marred by a devastating plague, his legacy of democratic governance and cultural excellence continues to inspire.

What era did Pericles help shape in ancient Greece?

• The Dark Age

• The Bronze Age

• The Iron Age

• The Golden Age

In which city was Pericles born?

• Thebes

• Athens

• Corinth

• Sparta

What political system did Pericles advocate for in Athens?

• Theocracy

• Oligarchy

• Monarchy

• Democracy

Which structure did Pericles commission that became a symbol of classical architecture?

• The Hanging Gardens

• The Great Pyramid

• The Parthenon

• The Colosseum

What was one of the key cultural achievements during Pericles' leadership?

• The development of the alphabet

• The invention of the wheel

• The flourishing of arts and philosophy

• The construction of the Great Wall

What was one of Pericles' military strategies during the Peloponnesian War?

• Invading Sparta directly

• Constructing long walls

• Forming alliances with Persia

• Building a large navy

What was the purpose of the long walls constructed under Pericles' strategy?

• To separate Athens from Sparta

• To connect Athens to its ports

• To protect against floods

• To mark the city boundaries

What was a significant challenge faced by Athens during Pericles' leadership?

• A civil war

• Invasion by the Romans

• The Peloponnesian War

• A famine

What major event marred the later years of Pericles' life?

• A devastating plague

• A volcanic eruption

• A major earthquake

• A severe drought

How did Pericles' vision continue to influence future generations?

• By emphasizing cultural excellence

• By promoting monarchy

• By discouraging intellectual pursuits

• By advocating for isolationism