Ancient Greeks

Culture and Contributions

The ancient Greek civilization shares:

A written language A system of government Advances in arts and sciences A common culture

Physical Characteristics

Greece is….

On the continent of Europe Bordered by the Mediterranean Sea A peninsula Hilly and mountainous Limited in rich soil

Human Characteristics of the GreeksBecause of their surroundings, ancient Greeks

had to adapt. As a result, they became

FarmersTraders

Shipbuilders

Greek Men and Women

Greek Men Went to school Worked for physical

strength Were voting citizens Played the lyre and

other instruments

Greek Women Took care of children Learned handicrafts Did not vote

The Olympics

Held every four years to honor Zeus

Held atop of Mount Olympus

Only men competed

Winners wore a crown of olive leaves

Greece: The birthplace of democracy

Democracy – people vote on the issues that effect them.

Representative DemocracyPeople vote to choose a representative

to vote for them on the issues

Direct DemocracyPeople vote directly on the issues

Architecture

The Greeks loved columns and used them often. A most famous example is the Parthenon which sat high above the

city.

ReligionThe Greeks believed in many different

gods.

Zeus

Athena

The Arts and Sciences Ancient Greeks were

Sculptors

Potters

Scientists

Great thinkers

Now, it’s all Greek to

you!