Ancient Athens: The Prototype for Western Democracy

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Ancient Athens serves as a beacon within Western antiquity as the center for culture with its cultural advancements impacting the culture of today. Founded nearly 9,000 years ago, Athens formed itself as the center of Greek culture and education during the classical period. Considered the prototype for Western Democracy, it allowed for the rise of a citizenship of voters, something unique in the ancient world. The Athenian love of physical activity culminated in the Olympics, an event that though ended by the Roman Empire, inspired the Olympics of the modern era. Though Athens was later conquered by the Roman Empire, it still served as the center of culture until its ultimate collapse in the 6th century AD via the Eastern Roman Empire. Ultimately, Western Society owes a debt to ancient Athens as this small city-state provided the backdrop for the West to develop and grow. Everything today, from the West’s love of sports to appreciation of the arts to government structure all flows from an ancient hilltop in Greece.
The origins of early Athens can be traced back as early as 7000 B.C.E. It is unclear if the name is derived from the Greek goddess Athena, or if the goddess was named after the city itself. The center of the city is settled on the Acropolis, a high, rocky plateau overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. This site was most likely chosen for its natural defenses inland, surrounded by mountains, with the Acropolis protecting its inhabitants from sea side attacks. Because of the rocky terrain, no large-scale agriculture was possible. The smaller farms weren’t enough to support the expanding population and Athenians relied on fishing and trading with neighboring civilizations. The city differentiated itself from neighboring city-...

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...man Empire in the West and was assimilated by the Eastern Roman Empire. Considered pagan by a growing Christian population, Athens began to lose its status as the center of education in the Eastern Roman Empire in the 4th century. When the Eastern Roman Emperor Justinian closed the philosophical schools in 529AD, it marked the end of ancient Athens.
Athens has left an impressive legacy that has stood the test of time. From its architectural achievements to its inception of democracy, the Athenian culture has had a significant impact on Western development. Western love of art developed in Athens and some of the Wests’ greatest athletic achievements have roots in the ancient Olympics. Athens has, and always will serve as the cornerstone of western society.

Works Cited

Mark, Joshua J. "Athens." Ancient History Encyclopedia. N.p., 28 Apr. 2011. Web. 08 Apr. 2014.

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