Athenian Democracy
Athenian democracy, practiced in ancient Athens around the 5th century BCE, was a direct form of democracy where citizens participated directly in decision-making rather than through elected representatives. Eligible citizens, primarily free adult males, gathered in assemblies to debate and vote on laws and policies. This system emphasized active civic engagement and equal participation, allowing citizens to have a direct say in their government. It differed from modern representative democracies by relying on direct votes for legislation and important decisions, creating a community-driven approach to governance in which every eligible citizen had a voice.
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Athenian democracy, developed in ancient Athens around the 5th century BCE, was a system of direct participation where citizens made decisions collectively. Male citizens over 18 could vote on laws, policies, and important issues, often in assemblies. This form of democracy emphasized equality and public discourse, allowing citizens to engage actively in governance. However, it was limited as women, slaves, and non-citizens were excluded. Athenian democracy laid foundational ideas for modern democratic systems, focusing on citizen involvement and civic responsibility. Its legacy continues to influence how we think about governance and participation today.