Athens and ancient democracy – basic principles
How it works
In the 5th century BC, Athens was an important Greek polis, known for its early form of democracy. Citizens of Athens could participate directly in political decisions, while women, slaves, and metics (foreigners) were excluded. The Assembly (Ekklesia) and the selection of officials by lot were central elements. Athenian democracy differed from modern democracies because it was direct and not representative. Important institutions were the Assembly, the Council of the 500, and popular courts. Political participation was tied to membership as a male full citizen.
Attic democracy was based on the direct political participation of male full citizens in the Assembly and in offices, with central institutions such as the Ekklesia and the selection by lot being characteristic.
An example
Who was allowed to take part in the Assembly in ancient Athens?
Try it yourself now
50 Exercises
To the learning unit →Own explanation and own practice exercises by AmyMath. Subject reference framework: History. The topic assignment may vary by federal state.