Chapter 9 Lesson 1

A Time of Glory in Athens

Analyze the roles of Athens and Sparta in the wars with the Persian Empire

Identify the difference between direct democracy and representatives democracy

Objectives

Direct Democracy – every Athenian who was a free male over 18 years old an equal vote in the assembly

Veto – to reject it Representative Democracy – democracy in

which citizens elect other people to make decisions for them

Vocabulary

The Greek city-states united to fight the Persian Empire

In the Battle of Marathon, the smaller Athenian-led force defeated the Persians

The Persian Wars - 490s BC

Emperor Xerxes, 4th king of Persia, almost conquered the Greeks

In key victories, however, the Athenian navy defeated the Persians at sea, and the Spartans beat them on land

Athenian navy led the Persian navy into a narrow strait. There, the lighter, faster Athenian ships could turn quicker than the Persian ships

This advantage allowed the Greeks to defeat the Persians in battle

Greek Victories

Cleisthenes’ reforms led to a direct democracy, now citizens could make decisions about their government

Pericles’ reforms allowed all citizens to take part in the democratic system

Modern reformers also work for the rights of all citizens

Democracy in Athens – 508 BC

During the Golden Age of Athens, leaders built grand public buildings to celebrate Athenian democracy and culture

It was a time of artistic, scholarly and economic growth

Pericles wanted to make Athens a model for respected Greek political, economic, and social structures

He spent money on public projects and supported the arts, culture, science, and other intellectual activities

The Golden Age

Greek city-states united to fight the Persians in the Persian wars

Greek victories led to a time of growth and wealth for Athens and its early democracy

This began a period of cultural achievement called the Golden Age of Athens.

These enduring contributions continue to influence people

Summary

What caused the Greek city-states to unite?◦ A common enemy, Persia, was trying to invade their lands

How were the roles of Athens and Sparta in the Persian Wars alike and different?◦ They both fought to defeat the Persians. Athens won victories at

sea, while Sparta won them on land

What are the key differences between a direct democracy and a representative democracy?◦ In a direct democracy, all citizens vote directly in one place. On a

representative democracy, citizens elect others to carry out these activities

What contributed to the rise of the Golden Age in Athens?◦ End of the war, pride, tribute, strong leaders

Reading Check Questions