Aristocrats and Tyrants Rule Greece is the birthplace

Aristocrats and Tyrants Rule Greece is the birthplace of democracy, a type of government in which people rule themselves. “Demo” means “the people” But not all Greek city-states were this way…

An oligarchy is a government in which only a few people have power Aristocrats, or rich landowners ran the city’s economy and served as

In the 600 s BC there was a rebellion, but the rebels failed to overthrow the aristocrats. As a result, Draco created new, harsh laws In the 590 s BC Solon created new laws, which were less harsh • All free men became citizens, people who could participate in government

In 546 BC, Peisistratus overthrows the oligarchy He becomes a tyrant, or one who holds absolute power through force He brought peace and prosperity to the city

The aristocrats were not happy They convinced a rival citystate to attack Athens As a result of this attack, the tyrants lost power

Around 500 BC Cleisthenes gained power in Athens • He thought aristocrats had too much power • He overthrew the oligarchy and formed a new kind of government, a democracy

Every citizen (free males) had the right to be involved in government • Voting was done by showing hands or sometimes ballots • As many as 6, 000 people were needed to vote

Changes in Athenian Democracy As the government grew, changes took place • Smaller councils were made • They decided which laws should be presented to the assembly • Juries had from 200 to 6, 000 people Athens remained a democracy for about 170 years

Lead the government from 460 to 429 BC He felt strongly that all citizens should participate Started the practice of paying those who served in office and on juries

Athens is conquered by Macedonia in 330 s BC Remained a democracy, but in a limited way In 320 s BC, it ended forever

Ancient Athenian vs Modern American Democracy Direct Democracy Representative Democracy • All citizens (male and free) • Men and women participate vote • Each person’s vote • Officials elected by counts the people to represent them • Majority rules • These officials meet and make laws