FORMS of GOVERNMENT
POWER and AUTHORITY – The growth of city-sates in Greece led to the development of
several political systems, including DEMOCRACY.
WHY IT MATTERS NOW - Many political systems in today’s world mirror the varied forms of
government that evolved in Greece
MONARCHY
ARISTOCRACY
OLIGARCHY
DIRECT DEMOCRACY
1) Which forms of government feature rule based on wealth or property ownership?
2) In which form of government do citizens have the most power?
Which Government to Choose Activity
The class will be divided into four groups. Each will be assigned one of the following types of
government (Monarchy, Aristocracy, Oligarchy, Direct Democracy). The city of Ocampopolis is
trying to decide which government is best suited for the citizen’s of the growing city state. The
following is a brief description of the City.
Ocampopolis is located in a small valley surrounded by imposing mountains bordering the
Aegean Sea. It has a natural harbour and much of its people are fishermen/sailors who are
very comfortable in sea faring vessels. There are small patches of fertile land but the growing
population now numbers close to 20 000 people, and most of the arable land is owned by a
small but very powerful class of nobles. King Oliver and his royal family have ruled over the
city-state for close to five generations, however he continues to hold on to his power. The
powerful noble class is slowly growing weary of the king, and having served in his armies for
many years, they desire a change. With the increase in trade and the boost in the local
economy that has come with it, a new, very wealthy merchant class is beginning to emerge.
Many merchants have made uncounted riches selling and trading numerous goods overseas at
various colonies throughout the entire Greek world. In fact, so wealthy has this class become
that they are now almost as rich or even richer than many nobles. The fact that the population
of Ocampopolis has swelled to almost its bursting point indicates that there are a great
number of individuals that now live within the city walls and the surrounding countryside.
Most people make their living either as fishermen or farmers but are angry that King Oliver is
demanding half of their crops. Even though a majority of the population is strong supporters of
the king, dissention is starting to emerge among the people. The king has a reputation for
being a just and fair ruler but the growing population is proving to be unmanageable. Many
still remain faithful out of tradition or loyalty, but their numbers continue to grow smaller.
The surrounding mountains and hills offer some protection, however there have been rumours
that the neighbouring city-state of Tambureno have been mobilizing troops and are planning an
invasion.
The Nobles have heard many of these rumours and have been stockpiling and buying bronze
spears, shields, breastplates and chariots to arm and train a professional army in the event of
a great war.
While this indeed worries the King, his brothers, King Carl and King Luca of their own
respective city-states, Cini and Venier, have pledged support for their sibling and have devoted
their own armies to assist and aid the royal family if need be. This is imposing for any invading
army as well as the citizens of Ocampopolis, for the cities of Cini and Venier both actively
employ a military-state and rule their cities with an iron fist.
With all of their riches, the merchant class is using its many connections throughout the
various cities throughout the Greek world and is using its influence and clout in attempt to
divert a full out war. They are fully aware, that a war would dramatically affect trade routes
and could directly harm their business and some of their own financial interests.
In your groups, brainstorm reasons for why the city of Ocampopolis needs your form of
government. Role play your group and present your arguments during an in class
debate. The future of Ocampopolis hinges on your ability to present a sound argument
and whether or not your system of government will best suit the welfare of the state.
Should Ocampopolis stay a monarchy? Should they adopt an Aristocracy, an Oligarchy
or Direct Democracy? Hmmmmmm…….