The Greeks

The Greeks

Minoan Culture

  • First high culture in Europe, located in Crete.
  • Traded with the eastern Mediterranean.
  • Developed a writing system and were skilled sailors.
  • Established colonies in the Mediterranean.

Mycenae

  • Grew strong shortly after the Minoan culture.

Greek City-States (Polis)

  • Greece consisted of many smaller city-states (polis).
  • City-states sometimes formed alliances.
  • Shared the same religion, culture, and language (Greek).
  • Competed in the Olympic Games every four years.

Greek Religion

  • Polytheistic; gods lived on Mount Olympus.
  • Main god was Zeus.
  • Gods had human-like qualities, feelings, strengths, and weaknesses.

Athens

  • One of the largest and most powerful city-states.
  • Had a strong navy.
  • Athena (goddess of war and wisdom) was their protector.
  • Had rich and poor people, and a large proportion of slaves.

Athenian Democracy

  • A simple version of democracy where male citizens voted.
  • Citizens met monthly to vote and discuss issues.
  • Council members were chosen by drawing lots.

Sparta

  • Focused on its army; boys began military training at age 7.
  • Women had considerable freedom.
  • Valued simplicity and lacked luxury.
  • Elite men could vote on the kings' decisions.
  • Majority of the population were helots (serfs).

Greek Colonization

  • Sought new areas to settle due to poor soil and overpopulation.
  • Colonization facilitated trade.
  • Established many cities in the Mediterranean.

Persian Wars

  • Persia attacked Greek city-states on the west coast of Turkey.
  • Persia won many battles, but Greeks won a naval battle and turned the war around.

Alexander the Great

  • King Philip II of Macedonia's son, Alexander, took power.
  • Defeated Persia and took over the kingdom.
  • Spread Greek language and culture (Hellenism).
  • After Alexander's death, the empire was divided.

Legacy of the Greeks

  • Contributions to science and philosophy (Aristotle, Plato, Socrates).
  • Origin of the Latin alphabet.
  • Many words come from Greek (democracy, geography, library).
  • Developed genres like drama and comedy.
  • The Olympic Games and athletic disciplines.