Identified the characteristics of Athenian democracy

Answer 1

1. Direct democracy: Athenian democracy was a direct democracy, where eligible citizens had the right to participate directly in decision-making processes through voting and attending assemblies.

2. Citizen participation: In Athenian democracy, all citizens over the age of 18 had the right to participate in decision-making, including the passing of laws, the election of officials, and the implementation of policies.

3. Equality before the law: Athenian democracy promoted the idea of equality before the law, where all citizens were considered equal in the eyes of the law regardless of their social status or wealth.

4. Rule of law: Athenian democracy was based on the rule of law, meaning that decisions and actions were governed by established laws and legal procedures, which were applied to all citizens.

5. Public scrutiny: Public scrutiny and accountability were essential aspects of Athenian democracy, with officials and policies subject to public debate and criticism.

6. Freedom of speech: Athenian democracy valued freedom of speech and the right to express opinions openly and critically, allowing citizens to actively participate in political discussions and debates.

7. Rotation of officials: In Athenian democracy, officials were selected by random lottery and served for a limited period of time, promoting a system of rotation and preventing the consolidation of power in the hands of a few individuals.

8. Jury system: Athenian democracy also included a jury system, where citizens could serve as jurors in legal cases and play a direct role in administering justice.

9. Limited citizenship: While Athenian democracy was characterized by the participation of citizens in decision-making, it was limited to male citizens who were born in Athens and completed military training. Women, slaves, and foreigners were excluded from the political process.