The Classical Age

3. THE CLASSICAL AGE -

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DEMOCRACY IN ATHENS The city state of Athens led a military alliance called the Delian League.

Athens played an important role in the military victory against the Persian Empire in the Persian Wars.

Under leaders like Pericles, Athens had a great political influence on other city states.

Athens became a democracy (which meant “rule by te people�.

In this political system, adult male citizens prticipated in government. But, women, metics (foreigners), slaves and freed slaves were not considered citizens.

3. THE CLASSICAL AGE ATHENIAN DEMOCRACY INSTITUTIONS -

Ekklesia: - was an assembly of all the citizens - They were in charge of : - vote laws - decide foreign policy - elect magistrates

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Magistrates: - Were in charge of the law courts and religious ceremonies.

- Two types of magistrates: 1. The archons were the chief magistrates 2. The strategoi were military leaders The Council, or Boule: - was formed of citizens, who were chosen by ballot.

- they coordinated the work of the magistrates - they made sure that laws were followed Heliaia : - was the supreme court.

- its members were elected each year after a ballot among the citizens.

3. THE CLASSICAL AGE -

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SPARTA Sparta was Athens’ rival.

In Sparta was an oligarchy, which meant “ government by the few”.

In Spartan society, citizens were trained to fight as warriors from an early age.

The perioikoi were free craftsmen or traders, but they didn’t have political rights.

The helots were like slaves.

3. THE CLASSICAL AGE SPARTAN POLITICAL INSTITUTIONS - The state was ruled by two kings who held military and religious authority.

- The gerousia: - Was a council formed by citicens who were aged over sixty.

- They were responsible for justice and drew up laws.

- The ephors, or magistrates maintained order.

- The assembly of citizens: - Had very limited powers.

- It approved the gerousia’s decisions.

- The rivalry between Sparta and Athens led o the Peloponnesian War, which ended with the defeat of Athens.