The Archaic Age

2. THE ARCHAIC AGE -

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THE POLIS Between the 8 th and 6 th centuries BC, Dark Age settlements grew into independent city states called poleis.

The polis was formed of the main city, the farming land and forests around it.

Each polis had its own government, army, laws and currency.

All the poleis shared the same culture, religion and language.

In each polis had: - The agora (main square) is where political activity and trading took place.

- The acropolis, on high land above the city, where temples were located.

2. THE ARCHAIC AGE EARLY GOVERNMENT - Archaic city states were ruled by an oligarchy (which meant “ government by the few�.

- The aristoi: - formed a privileged elite or aristocracy.

- They were landowners and military leaders

- Social disorders were frequent during the 7 th and 6 th centuries BC, for that reason had a political change: Tyrants took power (for example Peisistratos) Other leaders, Solon, the lawmaker.

2. THE ARCHAIC AGE GREEK COLONISATION -

Greek expansion led to the creation of colonies across the Mediterranean and the Black Sea (Between the 8 th and 6 th centuries BC).

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They made new cities, such as Syracuse, in Sicily and Emporion on the Iberian Peninsula.

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Causes of colonisation: 1. Land was scarce and it was held unequally 2. Population growth made it necessary to find new places where live.

3. Colonies created new trading possibilities -

Consequences: 1. Economic activity increased greatly in both city states and their colonies.

2. Greek culture spread into new regions. People who traded with the Greeks were also influenced by their culture.

3. Some social groups became wealthier. There were social changes and democracy emerged in the poleis.