City-States (Poleis):
Greece comprised of numerous independent city-states known as poleis, which were politically autonomous entities. Some famous poleis included Athens, Sparta, Corinth, Thebes, and others.
Early Greek political systems were typically ruled by kings, but they gradually gave way to aristocratic governments dominated by a small group of wealthy and influential families.
Citizen Participation:
The concept of citizenship was a distinctive feature of Greek democracies. While definitions varied, citizenship was generally restricted to free, adult male inhabitants who were born into certain families and met specific requirements.
In democratic city-states like Athens, citizens actively participated in government processes, including the People's Assembly, where key decisions were made by vote.
The People's Assembly:
The People's Assembly (Ecclesia) was a critical institution of direct democracy in ancient Athens. All eligible citizens could participate and engage in debates, propose legislation, and vote.
The Council of Five Hundred:
The Council of Five Hundred (Boulē) was a more prominent body tasked with preparing laws and overseeing daily affairs. Members were chosen annually through sortition, ensuring a broader representation of citizens in government.
Development of Democratic Principles:
Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, among other Greek philosophers, played a significant role in shaping and expounding democratic ideas. Their works contributed to the understanding of justice, equality, and citizen rights.
Pericles and Athenian Democracy:
Pericles, a renowned statesman and orator, led Athens during the 5th century BCE. His tenure marked the golden age of Athenian democracy, characterized by increased citizen involvement and the provision of public stipends to enable greater participation.
Women's Rights:
Women generally enjoyed limited rights and played a marginalized role in the public life of ancient Greece, as the political and legal sphere was predominantly reserved for male citizens.
Decline of Democracy:
After the Peloponnesian War and the rise of Macedonia under Philip II and Alexander the Great, Greek democracies began to decline. Democracy diminished as they came under the rule of regional hegemons and foreign empires.
Nevertheless, the legacy of Greek democracy endured. The ideas of government by the people, citizen participation, and the emphasis on reason, justice, and public engagement would later influence democratic movements in the Western world.