A Time of Glory in Athens
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Analyze the roles of Athens and Sparta in the
wars with the Persian Empire
Identify the difference between direct
democracy and representatives democracy
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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
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The Greek city-states united to fight the
Persian Empire
In the Battle of Marathon, the smaller
Athenian-led force defeated the Persians
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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
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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
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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
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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
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What caused the Greek city-states to unite?
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How were the roles of Athens and Sparta in the
Persian Wars alike and different?
◦ A common enemy, Persia, was trying to invade their lands
◦ They both fought to defeat the Persians. Athens won
victories at sea, while Sparta won them on land
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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
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What contributed to the rise of the Golden Age in
Athens?
◦ End of the war, pride, tribute, strong leaders