In 508 B.C., the Spartans themselves were overthrown by a noble named Cleisthenes. A year later, Cleisthenes put into effect the world's first constitution that was democratic, or favoring the equality of all people. For example, it gave Athenians the right of freedom of speech. The political reforms made by Cleisthenes lasted until the fall of Greece almost 300 years later.
Cleisthenes opened the Assembly to all males over 20 years old. Each year, the Assembly elected ten generals to run the Athenian army and navy and to serve as chief magistrates, or judges. One of the generals was named commander-in- chief.
The Council of Five Hundred handled the daily business of Athens. members were chosen each year by lot. The names of 500 citizens were drawn from a large pot. No one could serve on he council for more than two terms. Thus, every citizen had a chance to be a council member.
There were two reasons why the Athenians preferred choosing council membersby lot rather than by voting. First, they believed that in an election, people who had money or could speak well would have an unfair advantage. Second, the Athenians believed that every citizen was smart enough to hold public office. The only exception was in times of war. Then, a skillful general was needed on the Council.
Under Cleisthenes, citizens were required to educate their sons. Since there were no public schools, boys either had a tutor or attended a private school. Starting when they were seven years old, boys studied writing, mathematics, and music. They also practiced sports and memorized the works of Homer and other noted Greek poets.
When they turned 18 years old, Athenian males became citizens. They went to the templd of the god Zeus and took an oath of citizenship in front of their family and friends. In the oath, they promised to help make Athens a better place in which to live. They also promised to be honorable in battle, follow the constitution, and respect the religion.