Ancient Greeks and Romans played a significant role in shaping governmental ideas. They introduced concepts like democracy and representative government over 2,000 years ago. In Ancient Greece, the cities were structured as city-states, each functioning as an independent nation. One of these city-states was Athens, which for a long period, was governed by a select group called the Great Council, consisting of affluent and influential men.
Members of the Council implemented laws that were biased towards individuals in the upper echelons of society, similar to themselves. Over a period spanning from 750 B.C. to 550 B.C., this governing structure underwent transformation. Disadvantaged Athenians, including farmers and small-scale traders, voiced their dissent regarding the excessive authority wielded by the Council. They believed that the legislation enacted by this body was detrimental to the welfare of the middle class and less privileged citizens. Many Greeks desired direct participation in shaping laws that had an impact on their lives. The term “demos kratia” was utilized by Greeks to express their aspirations.
The English equivalent of the word is democracy, signifying governance by the people. Athenian leaders progressively concurred on extending the participation of more Greeks in the decision-making process of the Great Council. This gave rise to a political framework recognized today as a direct democracy. In a direct democracy, individuals not only vote for leaders, but also actively engage in government roles. To determine eligibility for serving in the Great Council, Greek leaders shaped the concept of citizenship.
Although only citizens of Athens had the direct right to participate in government, their citizenship was contingent upon men owning significant plots of land. As a result, women, slaves, and those with little or no property were not afforded the same rights and responsibilities as Athenian citizens. Nevertheless, Ancient Greece is credited with introducing the concept of democracy. In contrast, Ancient Rome established the world’s inaugural republic.
A republic is a form of government in which the population elects representatives to govern. The Romans established a republic between 750 B.C. and 350 B.C. At first, only the patricians, who were from the upper class in Rome, had voting rights and could serve as representatives. However, over time, even the plebeians from the lower class gained suffrage. As more Romans became eligible voters, they used their newfound power to enact further political changes. Around 450 B.C.
Roman citizens insisted on having their laws written down, as they desired transparency and stability. By having a codified set of laws, they hoped to prevent misuse of power by their leaders. Known as the Twelve Tables, these laws were prominently displayed in the Roman Forum so that all citizens could access them. Over time, the concepts and principles of government from ancient Greece and Rome spread to Europe and the United States.
