Why was Athenian democracy so groundbreaking?

Responses

It gave warriors who didn't have much at all the chance to become wealthy.

It gave warriors who didn't have much at all the chance to become wealthy.

It brought women into the Assembly.

It brought women into the Assembly.

It made politics the business of every male citizen, not just a few.

It made politics the business of every male citizen, not just a few.

It was the first time that a king was elected.

It was the first time that a king was elected.

1 answer

Athenian democracy was groundbreaking primarily because it made politics the business of every male citizen, not just a few. This form of democracy allowed ordinary citizens to participate in decision-making processes, engage in political discussions, and vote on laws and policies, which was a significant departure from the aristocratic systems that preceded it.

Other points mentioned, such as women's involvement in the Assembly, were not a characteristic of Athenian democracy, as women were generally excluded from political participation in Athens. Additionally, the idea of a king being elected is not aligned with the principles of Athenian democracy, which was characterized by collective decision-making rather than monarchical rule.

In summary, the essence of Athenian democracy was its radical inclusivity of male citizens in the political process, marking a historically significant shift toward more participatory governance.