Golden Age Of Pericles

The Age of Pericles was the time in which Athens flourished under the rule of Pericles himself. During this era, Pericles’s influence allowed many great achievements for the empire and those living within it. The time period is also known as the Golden Age of Athens. This title was earned through the improvements made by the creation and installation of direct democracy and the knowledge gained through developments in philosophy.

The use of direct democracy in Athens improved their society, and therefore contributed to making the Age of Pericles known as the Golden Age of Athens. One aspect of direct democracy that allowed improvements was that it allowed all male citizens to participate in government (Spielvogel 121). Previous to

the rule of Pericles, only wealthy male landowners could contribute to governmental decisions (Mark). The new policy allowed equality to the rich and poor, which in turn made the rulings of Athen’s government fair to all classes. Another upside of Athen’s government system was the consistency and nearness of their meetings. Since government met every ten days (121), they achieved almost constant betterment. Direct democracy also presented an additional way to improve itself: ostracism (121). Through the process of ostracism, Athens was rid of negative influences to their government and consequently ameliorated itself. Because of Athens’ use of direct democracy and its properties of equality to classes, constantness of meetings, and the practice of ostracism, the government was superior to what it had been before Pericles’ rule. This enhancement translated positively to the rest of society in the city-state, and therefore contributed to the name “Golden Age of Athens”.