Athenian Power and Freedom

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to Athenian citizenship, its rights, responsibilities, and structure.

Athenian Citizenship

The coveted status of being a citizen in ancient Athens, which conferred rights and responsibilities.

Metic

A foreign resident of Athens who was not a citizen but had certain rights and duties.

Direct Democracy

A form of government where citizens participate directly in decision-making.

Assembly (Ekklesia)

The principal legislative body in Athenian democracy where citizens debated and voted on issues.

Council of 500 (Boule)

A body of 500 citizens chosen by lot responsible for setting the agenda for the Assembly.

Archon

A senior official in Athens with various duties, selected by lot among eligible citizens.

General (Strategos)

One of the ten officials elected annually to manage military operations and foreign affairs.

Ostracism

A process allowing the Assembly to exile a citizen for ten years if considered a threat to the state.

Liturgies

Public services funded by wealthy citizens, such as the funding of festivals or warships.

Hoplite

A heavily armed infantry soldier in ancient Greece, typically a citizen-soldier of Athens.

Metoikion

A special tax that metics had to pay for residing in Athens.

Political Participation

The rights of citizens to vote, hold public office, and engage in military leadership.

Legal Rights

Access to courts and legal protections afforded to Athenian citizens.

Military Service

The obligation of citizens to serve in the military, typically as hoplites or in the navy.

Religious Obligations

Participation of citizens in rituals and sacrifices to the gods as part of their duties.

Citizenship Benefits

Rights including political participation, legal protections, and the ability to own property.

Responsibilities of Citizenship

Expectations for citizens to engage in politics, military service, and contribute to public costs.