Introduction
One might presume that defining an old and well-adapted theory such as democracy would be an easy task. However, a keen looks at some of its manifestations reveals substantial diversity which on further investigation should not be surprising at all. Dating back to when it first emerged, it has always been viewed and interpreted differently. It is not a state of governance that can be defined explicitly along a distinctive set of conditions. It is rather an approach to leadership that emerged gradually through the persistent work of human rights crusaders in conjunction with founding fathers of nations, who took it upon themselves to reinstate a new form of leadership in which control was brought closer to the people by giving them the power to elect leaders of choice as well as do away with divisions along lines based on social status among others.
A more comprehensive take defines democracy as a system of government in which all the people of a country enjoy fair and equal treatment and can vote to elect their preferred representatives.
Thesis
Athens is one of the world’s first known democracies and it played an exemplary role in setting the trend for other nations that wished to achieve a similar political status. However, on taking a closer look at it in the eyes of their neighbors; such as The Pericles and Oligarch, we see that an entirely different picture of this state is portrayed. Blackwell, (2003). Perhaps this concept of direct democracy was too harsh, incompetent and oppressive to the allies of the Athenian people. Perhaps it was the best method to be applied at the time in order to achieve optimum economic growth since it was survival for the fittest.
The Athenians were quick to act as soon as they had obtained leadership. Decisions about what cities would supply wealth and all other required amenities were made and the invasions soon begun. They went on to make tremendous strides in power among them the Persian invasion. The victim inhabitants were sold as slaves. Under the leadership of Cimon, they besieged, took and carried on wars with Sycros and Carystians conquering in both cases. However, the Naxians later revolted raging a war between them and the Athenians that left them reduced by blockade.
There was also a turn of allied cities and defections which were of different kinds; the cause being explained to be the manner in which the Athenians were being exacting and oppressive. The use of coercive measures towards men who were neither willing nor accustomed to bear the hardships of military service was their main point of discontentment. In so doing, the allies placed themselves in a position of disadvantage since in the event of war; they were always untrained and unprepared.
The plight of women in this society was also very wanting. Women had limited rights and were taken to belong in the same category as children. Only male Athenian citizens who had completed their military training had the right to vote in Athens. Ober, (1989).
After the Persian wars, Aristides and Themistocles; a clever statesman and a devoted warrior respectively ruled over the people. After seeing the manner in which growth and confidence had accumulated; Aristides advised the people to lay hold of the leadership of the league, to quit the country districts and settle in the city; pointing out it would be a gain living there. In this way, they would secure leadership.
His advice was taken and when they had gained supreme control, they proceeded to treat their allies in a more imperious fashion, with the exception of the Chain, Lesbians and Samians. These groups were maintained to play the role of providing security and reinforcement. This was however on the condition that they leave their constitution untouched and in return would be allowed to retain any dominion they had accumulated.
The Old Oligarch wrote a short essay of the paradoxical success of the Athenian democracy. It was demonstrated using the principle of enlightened self interest. He went on to explain how the Athenian poor knowingly supported ‘bad’ democracy because a good government would deprive them of a share in the government and the benefits provided.
However, amidst all these claims there were some aspects of the Athenian Greek Empire were actually fascinating and unusual in a positive way. Greater consideration of the poor people as compared to persons of good quality is the first trait that draws a lot of attention. It is based on the argument that these people supply the city with power much more than men of birth and quality.
Slaves are also allowed to indulge in luxury and any physical beating to them was illegal. Equality between slaves and rich men was also highly upheld which had earlier been unheard of. The cases of unjust denial of civil rights of any individual were rare.
Another case was Erythrae; one of Athens’ allies. It was also allowed to hold some powerful and influential positions of administration. It was manifested in the council they were required to form. It would comprise of 120 men. This was however only attained after they had undergone close scrutiny. They were required to meet some standards. These included; a minimum age requirement of 30 years and must not be a foreigner or a convicted violator. They were then administered an oath of justice in their service, refraining from revolt and accepting the penalty that would result from dishonoring the oath.
Bibliography
D. Brendan Nagle and Stanley. M. Burstein, Readings in Greek History; Sources & Interpretations.
Works Cited
Josiah Ober, (1989), the Nature of Athenian Democracy.
Christopher. W. Blackwell, (2003), Athenian Democracy; a Brief Overview.
