CONTENT STATEMENT
- Greek democracy and the Roman Republic were a radical departure from monarchy and theocracy, influencing the structure and function of modern democratic governments.
CONTENT ELABORATION
The Athenian form of democracy invested power with its citizens, not an individual ruler. It was a direct form of democracy since all citizens participated. The Roman Republic expanded the Greek model of democracy. It was a representative government with elected officials, division of powers, and an emphasis on civic duty. The powers of the Roman government were divided among the Senate, the Consuls, and the Assemblies. Roman citizens had rights and were expected to vote, register for the census, and perform military service. Many governments today were influenced by the Greek and Roman models.
Athenian citizens consisted of males over 18 with Athenian fathers.
Roman citizens consisted of males with a parent who was a citizen, freed slaves, and other males who made a huge payment to the government.
An example of the influence of the Greek and Roman models is the connection of the United States to the democratic ideals of Greece and the representative structure of Rome.
EXPECTATIONS FOR LEARNING
Describe how Greek democracy and the Roman Republic were radical departures from monarchy and theocracy.
Explain how Greek democracy and the Roman Republic influenced the structure and function of modern democratic governments.