1. Athenian Democracy

2. Bust of Cleisthenes created in 2002-2004 by Anna Christoforidis
Background
Image retrieved from
Bust of Cleisthenes created in by Anna Christoforidis

3. democracy rule by the people demokratia demo: kratia: the people
power or rule
A democracy is a form of government where political power comes from citizens.
rule by the people

4. What is the difference? Athenian democracy was a direct democracy.
Citizens were allowed to vote directly on laws and government actions.
This is different from a representative democracy
Citizens elect officials to vote on laws

5. Athenian Democracy The The The (The Courts) (Assembly)
500 men over 30 years old
Chosen by lottery
Decided legal cases
No police or lawyers, regular citizens
The
(Assembly)
Main group to make decisions
Any male citizen with $$ could attend and vote
The
(Council of 500)
Made of 500 men
Chosen by a lottery to serve
Could only serve 1 year
Who gets to to be part of the Athenian democracy?

6. Central Historical Question
Was ancient Athens truly democratic?