Athens

• Which city-state introduced democracy first in the ancient world?

  Athens
• What type of monarchy did Athens have at the beginning of its political history?

  A hereditary monarchy
• How many classes was Athenian society divided into?

  Four classes
• Who among the Athenian society enjoyed political privileges?

  Wealthy aristocrats
• Who was excluded from political benefits in ancient Athens?

  Ordinary farmers, merchants, artisans, and slaves
• What significant change occurred in Athens in the early 7th century BCE?


  A revolutionary change in the political arena
• What caused the revolutionary movement among the common farmers and laborers in Athens?

  The excess indulgence in luxury and wealth accumulation by the ruling class
• What was the impact of land ownership falling into the hands of the ruling class in Athens?

  It led to harsh conditions for landless, impoverished farmers, and indebted laborers
• What did the landless, impoverished farmers, and indebted workers demand from the ruling class?

  Liberation from the burden of land ownership and debt, as well as political rights
• Who were the leaders that introduced reforms in Athens?

  Solon, Cleisthenes, and Pericles
• What was the effect of the reforms introduced by leaders like Solon, Cleisthenes, and Pericles?

  They led to a gradual decline in the political power of the rulers and the aristocratic class
• What law existed in Athens regarding the enslavement of farmers?

  A law that prevented the enslavement of farmers to the ownership of land and debts
• What was formed in Athens that included common farmers, merchants, and artisans?

  An assembly
• How often did the assembly in Athens hold sessions?


  Every ten days
• What could any citizen propose in the Athenian assembly?

  Resolutions on any subject related to laws, administration, or policies
• What was the role of the Council of 500 in Athens?

  To ensure the proper functioning of laws and judicial affairs
• How were members of the Council of 500 elected?

  By secret ballot
• What was the role of the Council of 10 military leaders in Athens?

  To operate under the control of the members of the Assembly
• What significant development in governance began in Athens?

  The administration of a state involving the participation of common citizens
• Why is Athens referred to as the cradle of democracy?

  Because it was the birthplace of democracy
• What has evolved from the system of governance that began in Athens?

  A democratic system established in the majority of countries worldwide