Ancient Greek City-States and Society

City-States

• City-states existed around 450 BCE, encompassing the city and its surrounding area.
• They were geographically separated by mountains and water.
• Most city-states had a population under 1,000 people.
• Exceptions included Sparta and Athens, which were larger.
• Each city-state had its own laws and government.

Greek Citizens

• Greek society displayed significant inequality.
• Slavery was prevalent, either by birth or war captivity.
• Slaves worked in agriculture, mining, or domestic service and sometimes as teachers or doctors.
• Slaves could be freed through manumission (release) or payment.
• Free men held the highest social status.
• Their roles involved defending the city-state in exchange for political participation in the polis.
• Initially, access to the polis (political participation) was limited to a few men who could afford armor and weaponry.
• Women and foreigners held no political rights.

Life in a Greek City-State

• Agriculture (farming) was the primary economic activity for most people.
• Common crops included grain, grapes, and olives.
• Grain cultivation was challenging, leading to trade for grain.
• Pottery, wine, and olive oil were commonly traded for grain.
• Women received limited education and were primarily tasked with domestic duties.
• Their marital readiness was prioritized in wealthy families.
• Poor women usually worked outside the home for income.

Explore the intriguing structure of ancient Greek city-states, which thrived around 450 BCE. This quiz covers key aspects of their governance, population dynamics, social stratification, and the role of citizens within the polis. Understand the implications of inequality and the function of slavery in this historical context.