The Athenian Democracy Trivia Questions

The Ekklesia (assembly) met regularly to debate and vote on decrees, laws, and war decisions. All eligible citizens could attend and speak.

Women had no political rights in Athens. They could not vote, speak in the assembly, or hold office. Their role was confined to the household.

In Athens, only free-born adult men who completed military training could participate in the assembly. Women, slaves, and metics were excluded from all political rights.

Most magistrates and council members were chosen by lot (sortition) to prevent corruption and ensure equal opportunity. Only military generals (strategoi) were elected.

Athenian citizens could vote in the assembly at age 18 (after ephebic training). The age of 30 applied only to serving on the Council of 500 (Boule).

Athenian democracy was direct, not representative. Citizens voted on issues themselves rather than electing representatives to decide for them. Only generals were elected.

Each year citizens could vote to ostracize someone for ten years. If enough votes were cast, the person was banished without charge or trial.

While Athens is famous for its democracy, earlier democratic elements existed in other Greek city-states (e.g., Sparta) and in some Ionian cities. Athens itself evolved gradually from earlier reforms.