How were trials in Athens similar to trials in the United States today?

A. Men and women served as jurors.
B. Citizens were eligible to serve on a jury when they turned 18 years old.
C. A panel of 12 jurors decided the guilt or innocence of the accused.
D. The accused was considered innocent until proven guilty.

1 answer

The answer is D. The accused was considered innocent until proven guilty.

While there are similarities between ancient Athenian trials and modern U.S. trials, the presumption of innocence is a fundamental principle in both systems. In Athens, as well as in the United States today, the accused person is presumed innocent until there is sufficient evidence to prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The other options are generally not accurate representations of the Athenian system or modern U.S. practices. For instance, Athenian jurors were typically male citizens, eligibility age differs, and the jury sizes also vary significantly.