Athenian Democracy and Its Principles

The video explores the development of Greek democracy, focusing on its origins in Athens. It highlights the transition from aristocratic rule to a direct democracy where citizens voted on legislation and held government positions. Solon's reforms played a crucial role in shaping Athenian democracy by reducing slavery and expanding citizens' rights. Despite its advancements, Greek democracy had limitations, as only a fraction of the population could participate, excluding women, slaves, and non-landowners. These early democratic principles influenced modern constitutions and democracies.

Which ruler expanded the Greek Empire to its largest size?

• Leonidas

• Pericles

• Alexander the Great

• Philip II

What was the political structure of Athens before the development of democracy?

• Republic

• Monarchy

• Oligarchy

• Aristocracy

How did Athenian direct democracy function?

• A king had the final say in all matters

• A council of elders made all decisions

• Citizens voted directly on legislation

• Citizens elected representatives to vote on their behalf

Which of the following was NOT a principle of Athenian democracy?

• Control by regular citizens over political processes

• Random selection for government roles

• Direct voting by citizens

• Universal suffrage

Who was Solon and what was his role in Athenian democracy?

• A king who ruled Athens

• A politician and poet who reformed the political system

• A military leader who conquered new lands

• A philosopher who taught democracy

What was one of Solon's key reforms in Athens?

• Abolishing the citizen's assembly

• Minimizing slavery due to debt

• Increasing the power of aristocrats

• Establishing a monarchy

What was a major limitation of Greek democracy?

• Only women could vote

• Only free native-born land-owning men were citizens

• All residents of Athens could vote

• Slaves had the right to participate in the assembly

Approximately what fraction of Athens' population were considered citizens with full legal protection?

• 1/2

• 1/3

• 1/5

• 1/4

What percentage of Athens' population were slaves during the early days of democracy?

• 10-20%

• 30-40%

• 50-70%

• 80-90%

What was the impact of Athenian democracy on modern political systems?

• It had no influence

• It led to the development of monarchies

• It laid the foundation for modern constitutions and democracies

• It was completely abandoned in modern times