๐๏ธ Topic Summary
Imagine Greece wasn't one big country, but lots of little independent towns, each with its own government, laws, and even armies! These were the ancient Greek city-states, like Athens and Sparta. They often traded and fought with each other, creating a vibrant and sometimes chaotic world. Understanding these city-states helps us understand the roots of democracy, philosophy, and Western civilization itself!
Each city-state, also known as a polis, was like its own mini-country. These poleis were diverse in their cultures and forms of government. From Athens, known for its democracy and thinkers, to Sparta, a militaristic society focused on strength and discipline, each city-state contributed uniquely to the rich tapestry of ancient Greece. This activity will help you understand the key concepts of these fascinating societies.
๐ Part A: Vocabulary
Match the term with the correct definition:
- Democracy
- Oligarchy
- Acropolis
- Agora
- Polis
- A fortified hilltop in an ancient Greek city.
- A small group of people having control of a country, organization, or institution.
- A city-state in ancient Greece, especially its citizens.
- A system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives.
- A public open space used for assemblies and markets.
โ๏ธ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph using the words: Sparta, Athens, democracy, oligarchy, military.
__________ was famous for its __________, a government where citizens voted on decisions. In contrast, __________ was known for its strong __________, with boys training to be soldiers from a young age. Some other city-states had an __________ where only a few wealthy people ruled.
๐ค Part C: Critical Thinking
Imagine you are a citizen of either Athens or Sparta. Which city-state would you rather live in and why? Explain your choice, considering factors like government, education, and daily life.