The Ancient Greeks
Government
Oligarchy
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In an Oligarchy, the power is in the hands of a few powerful people or families. The word Oligarchy comes from the Greek words oligos meaning few and arkho meaning to rule or to command. In Ancient Greece, oligarchies were comprised of wealthy men, referred to as aristocrats. The rules that they put into place were usually self serving and were not popular amongst the citezins.
For more information, see:
this site has easy to read information about oligarchy.
Another easy to read site with basic information about oligarchy.
This site contains general information about Oligarchy including advantages and disadvantages of this form of government.
Democracy
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This is when a government is ruled by the people or assembly. The leaders and officials are voted for and everyone has a say through a voting system.
To learn more, visit:
Thsi site defines democracy and explains how it helped the Greeks solve problems.
Click on the "People Power" tab at this link on an excellent BBC school site for easy to read information on democracy. This site also includes an interactive timeline, quizzes, and other fun activities.
This site provides explanations of the different stages of democracy.
The Ancient Greeks had three main forms of government: Democracy, Monarchy and Oligarchy. Over time, certain city states changed their form of government or just the way their present form of government worked. For example, at times Athens was ruled by Tyrants and at others it was a traditional democracy.
Monarchy
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This is when there is one person ruling over all of a city-state; like a king. When Monarchy was in Athens they called this person a Tyrant. When the king dies, the position is handed to their eldest son (if they have one) so the people do not choose their ruler.
To find out more about Monarchy, go to:
This easy to read site would be useful for EAL students.
This site provides information on Tyranny in the city states.
This site defines Tyranny, distinguishes between a Tyrant and a king and has links to examples of Tyrants in Ancient Greece.
Image 1 and 2 from: http://greece.mrdonn.org
Image 3 from: http://westerlund09.wikis.birmingham.k12.mi.us/file/view/Greekgovtpromo-195.jpg/135432797/Greekgovtpromo-195.jpg