Evolution of Athenian Government: Monarchy to Ecclesia

The Athenian government started out as a Monarchy and switched into an Aristocratic Oligarchy, then to Areopagus, nine Archons, and finally an Ecclesia. An Archon was used during the aristocratic society, in other words, a king. He ruled through the Areopagus, the chief judicial and policy-making of the government [Andrews]. At the beginning of Aristocratic, there was nine Archons that ruled for life and held office for ten years. In 682 B.C., the rule of office became annual. The years progressed and two more senior Archons were added, the Archon Basileus, Chief Archon and the Polemarch [Demand 141]. By the seventh century, all adult male citizens of Athens had the right to attend Ecclesia. The Ecclesia is an assembly of citizens who prepared the agenda for the Areopagus. Draco allowed the Strategoi to possess no debt and not own land less than 100 minas. Among the classes of Solon, the Boule is elected third class citizens who make up the council of 400. The

One of the most important difference between the two city-states is the type of government they used. Athens was democratic and allowed the citizens to be a part of the law decisions. While, Sparta was an Oligarchy and ruled by two kings. The government was highly exclusive and only open to higher social standings. Athens lifestyle was modern and free, with an open outlook on life. The young men were not forced to join the army, unlike the Spartan boys who had no choice but to join the army. They concentrated solely on military strength and did not venture to the outside world. Another key difference is, how the woman are treated among the city-states. In Athens the woman had very little freedom, they depended on their husbands and could not own any land. But, Spartan women were stronger and could forge relationships with any man they pleased. They did not have to do any chores while the Athenian woman partook in weaving and cooking