Ancient Athenian Democracy and Civic Participation

Vocabulary flashcards reviewing core principles, social structures, and forms of civic participation in ancient Athenian democracy and modern society.

Origin of Athenian Democracy

The democratic system that first developed in ancient Athens in response to authoritarian rule.

Direct Democracy

A form of democracy used in ancient Athens where every citizen votes directly on every law.

Representative Democracy

A system of government where citizens vote for elected leaders to make decisions and vote on laws for them.

Male Citizens (Ancient Athens)

The only group in ancient Athens required to participate directly in government, possessing full political rights to vote, debate, and participate in decision-making.

Metics

Foreigners living in ancient Athens who had some freedoms but possessed no political voting rights.

Athenian Women and Children

A social group in ancient Athens that managed the home and family but held no political rights or voting privileges.

Slaves (Ancient Athens)

Individuals owned by others in ancient Athens who possessed no rights, freedoms, or political voice.

Athenian Citizenship Criteria

A status defined in ancient Athens by being male, born in Athens, eligible to serve in the military, and possessing the right to vote.

Geographical Influence on Government

The way physical terrain such as mountains, coastlines, or rivers makes travel difficult from place to place, shaping the structure and size of government.

Equality Under Law

A core principle of democracy ensuring that everyone is treated fairly and equally by legal rules.

Representation

A fundamental democratic principle where elected leaders make decisions on behalf of citizens.

Freedom

A fundamental principle of democracy guaranteeing personal liberties and rights to individuals.

Justice

A core principle of democracy concerning fairness and accountability within the community.

Formal Civic Participation

Institutional civic actions within government structures, such as voting in a local election or serving on a political council.

Informal Civic Participation

Community-based civic actions outside official government processes, such as participating in a community park cleanup with neighbors or attending a public protest.