Athenian Democracy and Slavery Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What role did born slaves primarily serve in Athenian households?

  • They were responsible for public administration.
  • They were primarily farm laborers.
  • They managed the welfare of the household’s free children. (correct)
  • They acted as military generals.
  • How did wealthy Athenians generate passive income from their slaves?

  • By selling them to neighboring states.
  • By leasing them to the city or army. (correct)
  • By freeing them to work for others.
  • By having them work on personal farms.
  • What clothing did most slaves wear in ancient Athens?

  • Brightly colored tunics and cloaks.
  • Long flowing robes specific to slaves.
  • Simple, short white tunics called chitons. (correct)
  • Formal attire suited for public events.
  • What was a common consequence for a citizen who severely harmed his own slave?

    <p>He could be sentenced to death if the slave died.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguished the wealthier Athenians from common citizens regarding clothing?

    <p>They often wore brightly colored tunics and cloaks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why was it difficult to identify enslaved individuals in Athens?

    <p>There was no distinct clothing or physical features to separate them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the rare opportunities for an Athenian slave?

    <p>To save money for eventual purchase of their freedom.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In terms of wealth indication, how did slave ownership compare to monetary currency in ancient Athens?

    <p>Slave ownership was more indicative of importance and influence than money.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary role of free men of means in Athenian society?

    <p>To focus on entertainment, philosophy, and politics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key characteristic of Athenian citizenship?

    <p>It required individuals to have two Athenian-born parents.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately characterizes the practice of self-government in Athens?

    <p>Self-government was primarily vested in wealthy male citizens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Athenian society justify the practice of slavery?

    <p>By believing that some people were naturally inferior.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What types of jobs did female slaves typically perform in Athens?

    <p>Household tasks such as food preparation and cleaning</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what capacity did slave women primarily serve in Athenian households?

    <p>As cooks and cleaners.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a common status of male slaves within Athenian society?

    <p>Some were educated and occupied roles such as teachers and doctors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Pericles' view on the engagement of citizens in political matters?

    <p>Political apathy was a sign of a weak society.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the Athenians acknowledge about the treatment of their slaves compared to other regions?

    <p>Their slaves lived in relative luxury compared to others in Hellas.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did Athenian slave owners keep male and female slaves in separate quarters?

    <p>To control relationships and reduce the likelihood of children.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the primary sources of slaves in Athens?

    <p>Capture during wars and purchasing from merchants.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the Athenian government require for an individual to gain citizenship?

    <p>Being a male of at least eighteen with two Athenian-born parents.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In Athenian culture, what was the general attitude towards manual labor?

    <p>It was primarily for slaves and poor citizens, not the elite.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did slaves play in the economy of Athens?

    <p>They contributed to various skilled activities and economic functions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which musical instrument was most commonly taught to children in Athens?

    <p>The lyre</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the Athenian viewpoint on slavery differ from modern perspectives?

    <p>Slavery was viewed as a necessary evil for democracy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a primary reason wealthy Athenians could devote time to philosophy and arts?

    <p>They relied on slave labor for manual tasks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is true about the children born to enslaved women in Athens?

    <p>They typically enjoyed more freedoms than their enslaved parents.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement reflects Athenians' approach to their slave population?

    <p>They employed educated slaves in various professional roles.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Pericles imply about citizens who neglected political matters?

    <p>They contributed to the decline of democracy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of Athenian society limited engagement in self-government?

    <p>Exclusion of women, foreigners, and slaves from citizenship.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In Athenian society, what was the main purpose of keeping male and female slaves apart?

    <p>To control potential relationships and offspring.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of entertainment did wealthier Athenians engage in during leisure time?

    <p>Philosophical debates and political discussions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the typical background of many male slaves in Athens?

    <p>They were educated men captured from their lands.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the presence of slaves in Athenian households primarily influence household income?

    <p>Slaves acted as assets that could be leased for additional income.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key legal consequence for a citizen who excessively harmed their enslaved individual?

    <p>They could face execution if the slave died from the harm.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What cultural mark distinguished wealthier Athenian citizens from the general populace?

    <p>They could afford dyed clothing for themselves.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way did slave ownership serve as a societal status indicator in Athens?

    <p>It was a direct reflection of wealth and influence.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What common misconception might exist about the treatment of slaves in ancient Athens?

    <p>All slaves were treated brutally and had no rights.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one pathway for Athenian slaves to gain their freedom?

    <p>By purchasing their freedom with saved money.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the condition of enslaved individuals regarding their appearance compared to free citizens?

    <p>There were no distinct physical differences between slaves and citizens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which description best represents Athenian attitudes toward the use of violence against slaves?

    <p>Most citizens viewed severe violence as uncivilized, but it was still legally permissible.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the concept of citizenship in Athens contribute to the prevalence of slavery?

    <p>Only a small fraction of the population qualified as citizens, leading to a higher slave population.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What philosophical belief regarding slavery did Aristotle hold?

    <p>Slavery is necessary for establishing social order and hierarchy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primary task did many male slaves perform in ancient Athens?

    <p>Performing manual labor in silver mines and rock quarries.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did outsiders note about the treatment of Athenian slaves compared to other regions?

    <p>Many Athenian slaves lived in conditions of luxury and comfort.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which characteristic significantly defined Athenian society's view on labor?

    <p>Manual labor was often considered degrading and reserved for slaves.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the principal source of slaves in ancient Athens?

    <p>Slaves were primarily captured during conquests and sold by local merchants.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did former slaves play in relation to Athenian citizens?

    <p>They were often utilized for their skills and allowed certain civil liberties.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of Athenian democracy remained compromised by the existence of slavery?

    <p>The participation of all individuals in governance.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a common philosophical stance held by wealthy Athenian men regarding politics?

    <p>Engaging in political matters was essential to being a productive citizen.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a distinct role of male slaves in Athenian society despite their general obligations?

    <p>Guardians, teachers, or doctors due to their education and background.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why were Athenian female slaves primarily engaged in household jobs?

    <p>Male slaves were preferred for any outdoor or laborious tasks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect characterized the Athenian attitude towards cultural pursuits?

    <p>Wealthy citizens were expected to cultivate appreciation for art and music.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a notable aspect of slavery practices in Athens compared to other societies?

    <p>Athenians did not pursue the breeding of slaves as a common practice.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which claim about the role of children born to enslaved women in Athens is accurate?

    <p>They were often kept as property but had limited rights.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor primarily enabled wealthier Athenians to pursue leisure activities?

    <p>The labor of slaves relieving them of manual tasks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one significant limitation on participation in Athenian self-government?

    <p>Women and slaves were systematically excluded from citizenship.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did wealthy Athenians primarily see their slaves fulfilling in society?

    <p>Slaves served as a means to enhance economic prosperity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the Athenian government utilize its own slaves?

    <p>To populate military ranks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a common reason slaves in Athens might save money?

    <p>To buy their emancipation from bondage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What legal recourse did citizens have if they inflicted harm on another's slave?

    <p>They had the right to sue for damages.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterized the clothing worn by members of wealthy Athenian families?

    <p>Brightly colored tunics and cloaks.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was an implication of enslaved individuals wearing similar clothing to free citizens?

    <p>It made it difficult to identify enslaved individuals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was considered an extreme consequence for a citizen who beat their slave to death?

    <p>Death penalty for the citizen.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which aspect does the treatment of slaves in Athens differ fundamentally from modern views on slavery?

    <p>The economy was heavily reliant on slave labor for luxury goods.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant reason for the high number of slaves in Athens compared to voting citizens?

    <p>Athenian citizenship was restricted based on gender and parentage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the treatment of slaves in Athens compared to other Greek city-states?

    <p>Athenian slaves were often allowed to live in relative comfort and luxury.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary philosophical underpinning of slavery according to Aristotle?

    <p>Humans have a natural hierarchy where some must rule over others.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did slavery play in Athenian economic activities?

    <p>Slaves were essential for both manual labor and skilled activities crucial to the economy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which characteristic was notable about the citizenship definitions in Athens?

    <p>Only male individuals born to Athenian parents were granted citizenship.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did Athenians maintain a system of slavery despite their democratic principles?

    <p>Slavery was considered necessary for economic stability and growth.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a common misconception about the role of slaves in Athenian society?

    <p>Slaves were entirely uneducated and lacked any skills.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a notable consequence of the Athenian system of slavery on its society?

    <p>It contributed to social stratification and limited political participation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What strategy did Pericles employ to protect Athens during the onset of the Peloponnesian War?

    <p>He convinced Athenians to retreat behind fortified city walls.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Spartans typically disrupt Athenian resources during the war?

    <p>They occupied Athenian farmlands and destroyed crops.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did Socrates play during the Athenian confinement in the city?

    <p>He hosted lavish parties for Athenian citizens.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What were the primary defenses Pericles relied on to maintain Athenian access to resources?

    <p>The fortifications surrounding the city and the port.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant cultural aspect of Athenian society during the Peloponnesian War?

    <p>Engagement in philosophical discourse and intellectual gatherings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What expectation did Pericles have regarding the outcome of the war with Sparta?

    <p>Sparta would yield after prolonged conflict.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a common activity among Athenians during the lengthy confinement within the city?

    <p>Participating in debates and philosophical inquiries.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did the initial Spartan attack have on Athenian society?

    <p>It solidified Athenian unity against common adversaries.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Pericles' primary goal for Athens?

    <p>To establish Athens as the next powerful empire</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What strategic move did Pericles believe was essential for winning wars?

    <p>Engaging in ruthless warfare</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did the Delian League have on the Greek city-states?

    <p>It unified the military resources against external threats</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one consequence of Pericles' death for Athens?

    <p>Political chaos ensued with multiple politicians vying for power.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Pericles want to change the perception of Athens among other city-states?

    <p>From a cultural center to a militaristic empire</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant feature of Athenian culture during Pericles' leadership?

    <p>A focus on spiritual enlightenment and intellectual pursuits</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of Athenian society was significantly affected by the plague?

    <p>The population and military capacity of the city.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key difference between Athens and Sparta in terms of military strategy?

    <p>Athens focused on swift naval engagements while Sparta preferred land battles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Pericles' leadership influence Athenian military strategies?

    <p>He established a powerful naval fleet as a key aspect of warfare.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect characterized the political climate of Athens under Pericles?

    <p>Expansion of democratic principles and civic involvement</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a direct impact of the plague on the Athenian populace?

    <p>Deterioration of living conditions and rapid spread of disease.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What critique can be made about the Delian League initiated by Athens?

    <p>It prioritized only Athenian interests over others</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What led to Athens surrendering in 404 BCE?

    <p>A lack of military resources due to the plague.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Plutarch’s description of Pericles suggest about his experience during the plague?

    <p>His mental state deteriorated along with his physical health.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterized the Athenian response to the invasions of the plague?

    <p>Disorder and panic resulting from overcrowding.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of Athenian society is highlighted by the plague's impact?

    <p>The interconnectedness of trade and public health.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary consequence of the plague for the citizens of Athens?

    <p>Significant reduction in the city's population</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the disease manifest in its victims according to historical accounts?

    <p>Beginning with inflammation of the eyes and advancing to gastrointestinal issues</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did Pericles' illness and subsequent death have on Athenian politics?

    <p>It caused chaos and lack of unified leadership</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where did the plague originate before spreading to Athens?

    <p>Northern Africa</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the living conditions within Athens during the plague?

    <p>Crowded, unsanitary conditions exacerbated the spread of disease</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterized the nature of the societal response towards the plague in Athens?

    <p>Reliance on known medicines and miracle cures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what year did Pericles eventually die due to the plague?

    <p>429 BCE</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the aftermath of the plague signify for Athens in relation to its military strategies?

    <p>The abandonment of previous strategies due to inexperienced leadership</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What motivated Pericles to push for Athenian expansion into an empire?

    <p>The belief in the superiority of Athenian culture</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main consequence of the establishment of the Delian League?

    <p>Consolidation of military resources across Greek cities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the transformation of Athens during Pericles' leadership?

    <p>Development into a center of military and intellectual significance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the nature of tensions between Athens and Sparta?

    <p>Rivalry driven by contrasting political systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Themistocles influence the naval development in Greece?

    <p>By inspiring other cities to invest in trireme construction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Pericles prioritize once he established Athenian culture as the envy of Greece?

    <p>Strategizing for external military conquests</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did urban communities play in the transformation of Mediterranean life?

    <p>They fostered increased intellectual pursuits and cultural enrichment.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the impact of warfare on the ideals championed by Athens?

    <p>It reinforced the notion of fighting for Athenian ideals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary military strategy employed by Pericles during the initial phase of the Peloponnesian War?

    <p>Retreating behind fortified walls while maintaining control of the port</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What sentiment did Spartan King Archidamus II express that contributed to the outbreak of the Peloponnesian War?

    <p>Jealousy towards Athenian dominance in the League</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of gatherings did Pericles host to engage with the intellectuals of Athens?

    <p>Lavish dinner parties for entertainment and discussion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the Spartan forces affect the agricultural resources of Athens during the war?

    <p>They occupied Athenian fields and destroyed crops.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Socrates’ primary approach to education and discourse at Pericles' gatherings?

    <p>To promote self-examination through questioning and discussion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the impact of the prolonged confinement of Athenians behind the city walls?

    <p>They faced dangers increasingly from the port as well as Spartan forces.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Pericles' expectation regarding the duration of the conflict with Sparta?

    <p>The forces of Sparta would tire or admit defeat within three years.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What underlying culture influenced the conflict between Athens and Sparta?

    <p>A culture that glorified warriors and military prowess</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Athenian Democracy and Slavery

    • Athenian Democracy was a system where only male citizens with Athenian-born parents who were at least 18 years old could vote.
    • The Athenian society was heavily reliant on slavery, with slaves outnumbering citizens.
    • Slaves were mostly foreigners who were conquered or bought from merchants.
    • Athenian slaves generally had better treatment compared to other slaves in Greece.
    • The Athenian government justified the use of slaves by arguing they were crucial for the navy, skilled activities, and the city's overall performance.

    Roles of Slaves

    • Slaves were employed in various roles, including household duties (cooking, cleaning), state-run brothels, rock quarries, silver mines, and police forces.
    • Slaves were responsible for building public edifices, homes, and working on farmland.
    • Athenian men of means spent their time on philosophy, politics, arts, and leisure while slaves handled daily tasks.
    • Slave women often performed household duties, while men were primarily engaged in labor-intensive work.

    Slave Ownership and Social Hierarchy

    • Owning slaves was a significant indicator of social class and wealth in ancient Athens.
    • Wealthy citizens could amass large numbers of slaves, leasing them out to the city or army for profit.
    • The number of slaves owned was a visible marker of a citizen's influence and power.
    • It wasn't easy to differentiate between slaves and citizens as most wore similar clothing.

    Slave Treatment and Freedom

    • Athenians generally treated their slaves well under legal standards regarding violence; however, punishments like beatings were common.
    • If a citizen harmed another's slave, the owner could sue for damages.
    • A citizen could be sentenced to death if they beat a slave to death.
    • Slaves could earn enough money to purchase their freedom, though full Athenian citizenship remained exceptionally rare for freed slaves.

    Athenian Democracy and Slavery

    • Athenian democracy flourished after victory over Persia, but slavery remained integral to Athenian society.
    • Even philosopher Aristotle believed in the natural order of human rule over other humans.
    • Athenian citizenship was restricted to adult males with Athenian-born parents, leading to a large slave population.
    • Slaves were primarily foreigners, captured during Athenian conquests or purchased from merchants.
    • Athenian slaves might have been treated better than slaves in other Greek city-states, as they could participate in some aspects of society.
    • Athenian slaves worked in various roles, including household services, mining & quarrying, policing, construction, and agriculture.
    • Wealthy Athenian citizens used slaves for manual labor, allowing them leisure time for philosophy, politics, and the arts.
    • Athenian society placed great value on self-government, excluding women, foreigners, and slaves from citizenship.
    • Athenian men enjoyed luxurious leisure time, while slaves performed essential tasks.
    • Slaves were often used in artistic expressions like music, dance, and mosaics.
    • Athenian slaves were largely separated by gender, with men performing manual labor and women focused on domestic tasks.
    • While most slaves were uneducated, some were skilled professionals like guards, teachers, doctors, and shopkeepers.
    • Slaves were not bred like livestock, but children born to slaves belonged to the household and enjoyed greater freedoms.
    • Slaves served as accountants and financial managers for wealthy Athenian households.
    • Slaves were a measure of wealth in ancient Athens, as they generated income through work and leasing.
    • While visually indistinguishable from citizens, slaves often wore simple tunics.
    • Athenian slaves were subject to harsh treatment, including beatings, although there were legal limitations against excessive brutality.
    • Slaves could earn freedom through savings, but full Athenian citizenship was rarely granted.

    Athenian Democracy and Slavery

    • Athens declared itself a democracy after its victory over Persia, despite the continued existence of slavery.
    • Athenian citizenship was restricted to adult males with two Athenian-born parents, resulting in slaves outnumbering voting citizens.
    • Athenian slaves were primarily foreigners captured in wars or bought from merchants.
    • Athenian slaves were considered better-treated than those in other Greek city-states, due to Athens' reliance on the navy and the need for skilled labour.
    • Slaves performed a variety of tasks, from household chores and mining to police work and construction.
    • Athenian citizens considered manual labor to be beneath them, leaving it to slaves and poor citizens.
    • Athenian men valued leisure, dedicating their time to philosophy, art, politics, and entertainment.
    • Slaves, especially women, contributed significantly to Athenian arts and culture, often serving as musicians, dancers, and artisans.
    • While female slaves primarily performed household tasks, male slaves held positions like teachers, doctors, and shopkeepers.
    • Slave owners generally separated male and female slaves to prevent fraternization and childbirth.
    • Athenian slaves, particularly those born into slavery, often held positions of trust and responsibility within households, managing finances and caring for children.
    • Slaves were considered a measure of wealth in Athenian society, and wealthy citizens leased their slaves for profit.
    • Athenian slaves wore simple tunics similar to those worn by citizens, making it difficult to distinguish them visually. Wealthier citizens, however, wore more elaborate clothing.
    • Athenian slaves, despite being well-treated compared to slaves in other societies, could still be subjected to violence by their masters.
    • Athenian law protected slaves from severe mistreatment, allowing owners to sue for damages if their slaves were harmed by others and permitting slaves to seek their freedom by saving money.
    • It was, however, extremely rare for a freed slave to be granted full Athenian citizenship.

    The Peloponnesian War

    • The Peloponnesian War was a conflict between Athens and Sparta, two powerful city-states in ancient Greece.
    • The war was sparked by tensions between the two cities over control of the Delian League, a military alliance of Greek city-states.
    • Sparta, led by King Archidamus II, invaded Attica, the territory surrounding Athens, in 431 BCE.
    • Pericles, the Athenian leader, ordered the Athenian population to retreat behind the city walls and to remain there until Sparta surrendered or lost its will to fight.
    • Athens prepared to stay in confinement for three years, expecting that Sparta's forces would wear thin or admit defeat, especially while the Athenian navy waged war against Sparta's coastline.
    • The Athenians were confident that their port, Piraeus, would remain open and supplied by merchant ships even though the city was surrounded by Sparta's forces.
    • Pericles hosted lavish dinner parties with Athenian intellectuals while the city was under siege.
    • Socrates, a prominent philosopher, used the parties to teach the importance of learning through questioning and critical thinking.
    • Sparta, meanwhile, occupied Athenian farmland, burning and destroying crops.

    The Athenian Plague

    • In 430 BCE, the Athenian Plague broke out in Piraeus, the port city, brought by imported supplies.
    • The plague killed one-third of Athens' population and proved a turning point in the war.
    • The plague debilitated the city's defenses and hindered its ability to fight.
    • It was a devastating blow to Athenian morale and leadership.
    • Pericles himself died from the plague in 429 BCE.

    Pericles' Legacy

    • Pericles, the Athenian leader, led Athens through a period of great growth and prosperity.
    • He was responsible for building the Parthenon, a magnificent temple dedicated to Athena, and other public buildings.
    • He also promoted democracy and the arts, making Athens a cultural center of the ancient world.
    • However, Pericles' overconfidence and ambition eventually led to Athens' downfall.
    • His pursuit of empire exposed Athens to the dangers of war and disease.

    The Aftermath of the War

    • Athens surrendered to Sparta in 404 BCE.
    • Athens lost its empire and was forced to accept Spartan rule.
    • The Peloponnesian War marked the end of the Athenian Golden Age.
    • Sparta, although victorious, was unable to maintain its control of Greece.
    • The war also contributed to the decline of Greece as a whole.

    Athenian Plague

    • A plague struck Athens in 430 BCE, likely originating in Northern Africa and spreading via trade routes
    • The plague caused a high death toll, with victims experiencing severe symptoms such as "violent inflammation" of the head and eyes, and "ulceration and uncontrollable diarrhea"
    • One-third of Athens' population succumbed to the plague
    • The plague also killed Pericles, Athens' leader, after a six-month illness
    • Political instability followed Pericles' death, with Athenian soldiers being ordered around by inexperienced leaders

    Athenian Empire

    • Pericles turned Athens into a center of military prowess, intellect, trade, and luxury
    • He desired an Athenian empire and believed this would be achieved through ruthless warfare
    • Pericles led Athens into the Peloponnesian War, against Sparta, their closest adversary

    Peloponnesian War

    • The Peloponnesian War was sparked by tensions between Athens and Sparta, who were allies but jealous of each other's power
    • Pericles ordered Athenians to withdraw behind the fortified walls of Athens, including those protecting Piraeus, the port
    • He believed Athens could withstand a siege for up to three years by keeping the port open to merchants
    • Athens sent their navy to attack the Spartan coastline, which later became known as the Peloponnesian Coast.

    Athenian Culture

    • Athens' elite citizens, including Pericles, hosted lavish dinner parties where intellectuals and philosophers such as Socrates would debate and share ideas
    • Socrates, known for his oddball personality, would humorously argue for his own beauty.
    • He advocated for learning through questioning and critical thinking, stating that "a life without this sort of examination is not a life worth living."
    • Athenian forces were struggling outside the city walls, with their farmland being destroyed by Spartan troops.

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