Age Of Pericles Essay

“Our form of government does not enter into rivalry with the institutions of others. Our government does not copy our neighbors ', but is an example to them. It is true that we are called a democracy, for the administration is in the hands of the many and not of the few,” stated Pericles when describing the government that he had shaped. Pericles believed in involving all of the population in government decisions, leading to a time of prosperity. In the Age of Pericles, from 491 BCE to his death in 429 BCE, Athens thrived. During this period of time, Athens was the center of reform and advancement. Pericles became a skillful politician, respected military leader, acknowledged patriot, and almost incorruptible. His leadership, government

Positions within each branch provided new opportunities to all citizens of Athens. The Assembly consisted of men that came to vote on subjects of government. They voted on war, foreign policies, laws, and ostracization of citizens. The group decision was decided by a simple majority vote. They could also serve in the Council of 500, men who came from the ten tribes of Athens and voted on what would be brought to the Assembly’s attention. They supervised government workers and were in charge of things like navy ships and army horses. They dealt with ambassadors and representatives from other city-states. The Council’s men were not elected to their position but chosen by lot. This made it so not only the rich could be included in politics, but the poor as well. The last branch was the popular courts. They were chosen daily by lot, with a total of five-hundred jurors. These men had almost unlimited power. Since there were no police in Athens, the court ruled on cases and delivered verdicts and sentences with majority rule. These positions were paid and could be obtained by any citizen of Athens. Pericles also added many political ranks. These ranks usually were high seats and had powers over the army and foreign