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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    Description

    Test your knowledge on Athenian democracy and the role of slavery in ancient Athens. This quiz covers the voting rights of citizens, the reliance on slaves for various jobs, and the societal implications of these systems. Dive into the complexities of ancient Greek society and its values.

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