Council of 500

The Council of 500, known as the Boule, was a key political body in ancient Athens, created to help manage the city’s affairs. Comprised of 500 citizens chosen by lot, it served as a preparatory group for the larger Assembly, where all citizens could vote on major decisions. The Council organized daily government operations, set agendas for meetings, and ensured that laws were executed. This system aimed to promote democratic participation and balance power, making it a cornerstone of Athenian democracy, where citizens had a direct role in shaping their governance.