Athenian Democracy: Citizens' Rights

In the ancient city of Athens, democracy was founded as a system of government where citizens participated directly in decision-making. This meant that every male citizen had the right to speak in the assembly, propose laws, and vote on matters affecting the community. Women, slaves, and foreigners were excluded from this process, which underscored the limited nature of participation at the time.

The assembly met regularly, and decisions were often made by a majority vote. Citizens would gather to discuss important issues, such as war, justice, and public finances. The active participation of citizens was considered a civic duty and was essential in shaping the future of the city. However, the exclusivity of this system led to significant debates about equal rights and representation, issues that are still relevant today.