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Democracy
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One of the major achievements of Athens was to involve its citizens in the running of its affairs. This system of government is known as democracy, or rule by the people. In Athens, in fact, only men over 20 were classed as citizens and could vote. There were no votes for women, children, foreigners, or the many slaves in the city.
Every year, about 700 posts could be filled by citizens. They ranged from generals and treasurers to the keeper of the prison and street cleaners. All except the generals were selected for a year at a time by drawing lots from men over 30.
Citizens could become jurors in trials, responsible for deciding whether an accused person was guilty or innocent.
(A) ASSEMBLY
The Assembly met on the Pnyx, a hill in Athens, about 40 times a year. As many as 8,000 citizens could attend.
(B) A CITIZENS VIEW
Meetings of the Assembly began early in the morning and could continue until dark. They were often rowdy. Sometimes decisions made in the heat of the debate were overturned the next day when emotions were calmer. Votes were taken by a show of hands.
(C) DEBATES
Every month the Assembly discussed the citys defence and the state of its corn reserves.
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Previous:
Back
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Book:
The Greeks
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Section:
Spotlight on Ancient Greeks
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Chapter:
Democracy
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