Ancient Greek Democracy Facts

Power shifts, residents in rebellion and an evolving political system hasn't diminished the foundation of the ancient idea of Greek democracy. Modern democracy first took shape in ancient Greece thousands of years ago. Many aspects of Greek democracy may seem familiar to modern people, while other aspects might seem foreign. As a revolutionary concept, democracy as practiced in Greece would eventually change the shape of history. Athenian democracy continues to be a driving force in political pursuits around the world.

Developed around 550 B.C., Athenian democracy took root in Athens, Greece. History shows that although other cities followed democratic principles in Greece around the same time, they were all modeled after Athens and often not as stable. Democracy, attributes power to people, and marks a significant shift from previous governmental systems. The birth of democracy in Greece began a political process that continues to find its footing as people and powers evolve.

Athenian democracy had its growing pains. Initially, not everyone who lived in Athens could participate. Only male citizens older than 18 had that privilege, and a majority of the population were not citizens. Participating in the democratic process also entailed full-time responsibility. According to Xenophon, most participants had slaves to work for them. Some scholars point out that without slaves, democracy would not have been possible.

Three institutions made up the governing bodies of Greek democracy in Athens: the Assembly, the Council and the courts. The Assembly met on average every 10 days, and gave citizens opportunity to legislate and vote on important matters. Meetings were in a large theater called the Pnyx, which held about 6,000, and later at most 14,000. The second institution, the Council of 500, also known as the Senate, met every day, and proposed legislation to be ratified by the Assembly. The Council was composed of 50 men from 10 tribes, chosen by lot. The third institution, the courts, were composed of 500 citizens chosen daily by lot to try criminal and civil cases.

It was a radical idea that won't die. The birth of democracy in Greece was a revolutionary concept that began to strip the power and authority from aristocrats, and move decision-making and rule to citizens. Some ideas that it produced include those of equal rights, political accountability, and separation of powers. Its influence could be found later in the republic of Rome, and even in the founding of the United States.