Greek Politics Flashcards
Define democracy.
A system of government that is ran by the whole population or eligible members of a state, who are typically elected to become representatives.
Define oligarchy.
A small group of people who have control over a country, organization or group.
Why was Pericles important?
Around 461 B.C. Pericles became a dominant political figure who established a direct democracy, which gave lower class citizens a part in public affairs.
How did Athens and Sparta differ? How were they similar?
Spartan Differences:
As a male you are militarized from birth.
They conquered many of their neighbors.
They didn’t believe in learning fine arts or philosophy.
You were in the military from age 7-30.
They were extremely discipline.
They despised luxury.
They document their own history, therefore most of their “history,” were exaggerated.
Women trained physically and most likely ran Sparta while the men were gone.
Athenian Differences:
They have more democratic tendencies.
They’re located by the sea therefore they have a trade based culture.
They worshipped Athena.
They are more diverse.
They believed that fine arts, literature, and philosophy were important.
Similarities:
They’re both Greek civilizations.
For the most part women had very little rights.
Define Delian league.Define Peloponnesian league.
Delian League was Athens base camp.
Peloponnesian League was Sparta’s base camp.
What were the Persian Wars?
The first war was between Greece and Persia who was lead by King Darius I. The Persians were defeated and an Athenian soldier ran 26 miles from Marathon the Athens to deliver the news before dying soon after.
The second war was again between Greece and Persia this time their leader was Xeres who lead a 2,000,000 men army against the combined 5,000 men army from Greece. Greece held off for a while before they lost. However because of Athens navy and the Spartan forces Persia was ultimately defeated.
What was the Peloponnesian War?
Both sides believed that their strategies were better than the others. Spartans plan was to surround their enemy and Athens strategy involved remaining save inside the walls. However due to overcrowding Athenians developed a illness that wiped out a third of the population. They later surrendered and the empire was destroyed.
Who was Alexander the Great?
Alexander the Great was only twenty years old when he took over the throne from his then recently assassinated father. He became successful due to his amazing Leadership, and exceptional military skills.
What were the two main parts of a polis?
Acropolis: served as a fallout shelter,a religious temple and a battle fallout.
Agora: served as an open area for citizens.
Define polis.
A polis were city states that were the main focus in Greek Culture. Polises were usually places where people gathered for either social, political, or religious based activities.
