jan 1, 507 BC - Ancient Greek Democracy

Description:

Ancient Greece was the first place to have ever adopted the concept of a democracy and have adopted this type of government to their society. The leader of Athens at the time (Cleisthenes) presented this form of government and system for the first time to Athens and to the world. Although this democracy did not benefit everyone, all male citizens over 18 were able to participate in the democracy and this was revolutionary. This system consisted of an Assembly, The Council of 500 and the Court. In the Assembly all men could express their opinions on subjects and even vote. The Council of 500 consisted of 50 representatives from each of the ten Athenian tribes chosen by random selection; it's purpose was to chose what would be passed to the assembly for discussion. The Court was composed of 500 randomly chosen jurors that would vote on sentences or if the one being prosecuted was guilty or innocent by majority rule. This government system was the first democracy however it did not last forever since a century later the government would slowly turned into an aristocracy.

Even though this democracy and its ideas did not last for more than two centuries it was the first one and it promoted equality, not completely but to a larger extent than it was in the past. This made all male citizens of Athens contribute to the government equally regardless wealth or popularity. The expression of their opinions and votes in the Assempbly, Council and the Court promoted individualism and to this day the ideas that were introduced in the first democracy are still used in the present democracies around the world.

Added to timeline:

Date:

Images: