Forms of Government and Athenian Democracy

Study Notes

Forms of Government

Monarchy: Ruled by a king who inherits power, assisted by a council of elders.
Aristocracy: Ruled by wealthy, free men who demanded more political power to defend the city.
Tyranny: Ruled by a single powerful individual, like a dictator.
Democracy: Ruled by the people.

Athenian Democracy

Assembly: Met approximately 40 times a year to decide important matters like peace, war, and laws.
Council of 500: Composed of 500 men chosen by lottery annually. A smaller council of 50 men led the council each month, with a different chairman each day. Prepared proposals for new laws and managed city finances.

Differences Between Athenian and Dutch Democracies

Decision-Making: Dutch: 150 people make decisions professionally; Greek: Citizens participated alongside their jobs.
Participation Selection: Dutch: Ordinary citizens decide parliament members every four years; Greek: All eligible citizens participate in the assembly.
Leadership Tenure: Dutch: Ministers serve four-year terms; Greek: Different governing structure every month.
Gender Participation: Dutch: All genders participate; Greek: Women excluded from politics.

Decline of Athenian Democracy

Rise of Macedonian Power: King Philip II gained significant power.
Conquests by Alexander the Great: After Philip's assassination, Alexander conquered Persia and Egypt, expanding his empire to India, between 336 and 323 BC.
Limited Citizen Participation: Greek citizens had diminished power, having only a say in minor city matters.

Description

Explore the various forms of government, including monarchy, aristocracy, tyranny, and democracy. This quiz delves into the unique aspects of Athenian democracy, its assembly, and the Council of 500, highlighting the differences between Athenian and Dutch democratic systems.