Council of 500

Definition

The Council of 500 was a key institution in ancient Athens responsible for the day-to-day running of the city-state's government. It played a crucial role in the development of democracy in Athens, as it allowed citizens to participate directly in political decision-making and ensured that a diverse range of voices were represented in governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Council of 500 was established in 507 BCE by Cleisthenes as part of his reforms to create a more democratic government in Athens.
2. Members of the Council were chosen by lot from each of the ten tribes of Athens, with each tribe providing 50 representatives, ensuring broad citizen representation.
3. The Council met daily to discuss issues, propose legislation, and oversee government administration, acting as a check on the power of the Assembly.
4. Each member served a one-year term and could only serve twice in their lifetime, preventing any one individual from gaining too much power.
5. The Council played a vital role in setting the agenda for the Assembly and managing public affairs, contributing significantly to Athenian civic life.

Review Questions

• How did the Council of 500 contribute to the democratic processes in ancient Athens?
  • The Council of 500 was instrumental in promoting democracy in ancient Athens by enabling citizens to have a direct say in governance. By selecting members through random lottery from various tribes, it ensured diverse representation and prevented aristocratic domination. The council’s functions included setting the agenda for the Assembly and managing day-to-day governmental affairs, which empowered more Athenians to engage actively in political life.
• What were some key reforms introduced by Cleisthenes related to the Council of 500, and how did they impact Athenian society?
  • Cleisthenes introduced significant reforms when he established the Council of 500, aimed at reducing the influence of aristocracy and increasing citizen involvement. By creating a council where members were selected by lot, he promoted equal participation among citizens. These changes led to a more inclusive political environment, ultimately shaping Athenian democracy by encouraging broader engagement from different social classes within society.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the Council of 500 in balancing power within the Athenian government and its impact on later democratic systems.
  • The Council of 500 effectively balanced power within the Athenian government by acting as a counterweight to the Assembly and preventing any single faction from dominating decision-making. Its structure promoted citizen involvement and accountability, laying foundational principles for future democratic systems. This model influenced later democratic governments by emphasizing representative participation and checks on authority, showing how local governance can empower citizens while maintaining order and fairness.

Related terms

Democracy: A system of government where power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through freely elected representatives.

Assembly:

A gathering of citizens in ancient Athens that served as the principal body for making laws and discussing important issues.

Stratēgos: An elected general in ancient Athens who was responsible for military matters and leading the city's army.