Question

How did democracy evolve in Greek city-states?
OR
Describe the political Condition in Greek City-states.

Answer 1

In the beginning, the monarchs ruled over the city-states. But later, the wealthy landholders seized power and abolished monarchy. Due to trade, commerce and industry, a rich middle class emerged in the cities. They, along with poor farmers, attempted to limit the power of the landowners. This conflict led to the rise of the dictators whom the Greeks called tyrants. Gradually, these tyrants were thrown out and democracy and oligarchy were brought into practice. The democracy practiced by the Greeks was different from the one practiced today.