Ancient Greek Democracy (jan 1, 507 BC – jan 1, 460 BC)
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Ancient Greek Democracy or Demokratia was arguably the worlds first example of a democratic system. Established by Athenian leader Cleisthenes, Demokratia saw that any Athenian male citizen that was 18 years of age or older would be able to vote at Assembly up to 40 times per year.
Ancient Greek Democracy contributed to classical liberalism by promoting principles like individual rights and freedoms and rule of law. Although the voting rights at this time in ancient Athens were restricted to male citizens over 18, over time all residents of Athens even the slaves saw their quality of life increase as well as their individual rights and freedoms. Perhaps most significant in its contribution to liberalism would be the establishment of the Dikasteria which was the name given to 500 male citizens over thirty who were chosen by lot daily to preform the duties of the courts. Although its hard to determine whether certain powerful people were able to secure immunity at times, this exemplifies aspects of the rule of law because the jurors had unlimited power to ensure that every case brought forward to them, of which there was no limitation, was settled justly.
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