def: polis - the fundamental political unit

in Ancient Greece

Formation of the City State

• Greeks moved away from tribal control

• Separated by geography

• Concern for local area

Governing the City States• Local division = different

governing

Forms of Government• Monarchy• One ruler

– King• Hereditary

– Some by divine right

• Practiced in Mycenae by 2,000 B.C.

• Oligarchy• Rule by a few

powerful people– Based on

wealth or ability

• Ruler control over military

• Practiced in Sparta by 500 B.C.

• Aristocracy• Rule by nobles

– Based on social status or wealth

• Hereditary• Practiced in

Athens prior to 594 B.C.

Gathering in the city-states

• Most city-states controlled 50 to 500 miles• Home to less than 10,000 residents• The acropolis

– A fortified hilltop• Discussion of public affairs, exchange

ideas • What might have developed because of

the discussions atop the acropolis?

Gathering of the city-states

• The Olympics • Oracle of Delphi

Olympics• First Olympic Games

in 776 B.C.• In honor of Zeus• At Olympia• Every four years• Way to measure time

– At the time of the ___ Olympiad

• Simple prizes, but great fame

Oracle of Delphi• Sanctuary belonging to the sun god

Apollo

For Next Class…• Study for quiz over:

– Geography– Mycenaean– Three Tribes– Formation of City State– Gatherings

• Long term assignment: Terms– Due on day 12