Apella

Definition

The Apella was the assembly of Spartan citizens, primarily composed of male citizens over the age of 30, who gathered to discuss and vote on important matters affecting the state. This assembly played a vital role in the political structure of Sparta, providing a platform for citizen participation in governance, especially in matters concerning war, legislation, and the election of officials. The decisions made by the Apella reflected the values of Spartan society, emphasizing the importance of collective decision-making in maintaining their warrior culture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Apella met at least once a month and could convene more frequently if needed, demonstrating the active role of Spartan citizens in their governance.
2. Decisions made by the Apella required a majority vote, which reinforced democratic elements within the oligarchic structure of Sparta.
3. While all Spartiates could attend the Apella, only those over 30 could participate in voting, reflecting a societal structure that prioritized experience and maturity.
4. The Apella was instrumental in electing the ephors and other key officials, making it a crucial aspect of Spartan political life.
5. The influence of the Apella was limited compared to other governing bodies like the Gerousia, but it still represented a form of civic engagement among Spartan citizens.

Review Questions

• How did the Apella contribute to Spartan democracy despite being part of an oligarchic system?
  • The Apella allowed male citizens over 30 to gather and vote on key issues like war and legislation, providing a platform for citizen participation. While Sparta had an oligarchic structure dominated by the Gerousia and kings, the Apella's voting process encouraged civic involvement and represented a unique blend of democracy within that system. This assembly ensured that certain decisions reflected the will of Spartan citizens rather than being solely dictated by elites.
• Analyze the relationship between the Apella and other governing bodies in Sparta, such as the Gerousia and Ephors.
  • The Apella worked alongside other governing bodies like the Gerousia and Ephors to create a complex political system in Sparta. While the Gerousia proposed laws and policies, it was ultimately up to the Apella to approve or reject them through voting. The Ephors also played a critical role as overseers, ensuring that laws passed by the Apella were enforced. This interdependence showcased how power was distributed among different groups while still allowing for some level of citizen engagement.
• Evaluate the impact of the Apella on Spartan society's values regarding citizenship and governance.
  • The Apella shaped Spartan society's values by emphasizing collective responsibility and civic duty among its citizens. By engaging Spartiates in decision-making processes, it reinforced notions of participation, accountability, and loyalty to Sparta. This focus on communal involvement directly aligned with their warrior culture, where every citizen's input contributed to military readiness and societal cohesion. Ultimately, the Apella helped maintain Spartan identity while promoting a sense of belonging among its members.

Related terms

Gerousia: The Gerousia was the council of elders in Sparta, consisting of men over 60 years old, which held significant power in shaping laws and policies before they were presented to the Apella.

Spartiates: Spartiates were full citizens of Sparta, who had completed rigorous military training and were responsible for maintaining the militaristic and austere lifestyle that characterized Spartan society.

Ephors: Ephors were a group of five elected officials in Sparta who held considerable authority, overseeing the execution of laws and serving as a check on the power of the kings and the Gerousia.