The city-state considered the birthplace of democracy is Athens, Greece. In the 5th century BC, Athens developed a system of direct democracy, where citizens could participate actively in decision-making and governance. This was a significant shift from earlier forms of government, where power was concentrated in the hands of a few individuals or families.
In Athens, any male citizen over the age of 18 had the right to speak and vote in the Assembly, which made decisions on various matters such as laws, war, and public policy. This participatory approach not only allowed for broader representation but also encouraged civic engagement among the citizens.
Although Athenian democracy was limited to a specific group and excluded women, slaves, and non-citizens, it laid the foundational principles of equality and participation that have influenced modern democratic systems worldwide. The legacy of Athenian democracy continues to be a subject of study and admiration in contemporary discussions about governance and civil rights.