Kialo requires JavaScript to work correctly.
Where would be a better place to live: Ancient Athens or Sparta?
Loading Discussion
Selected claim, supporting its parent
Most of the levers of power in Sparta were inaccessible to the ordinary Spartan.
Pros
Cons
Pro claim 1
The kings were aided in their decision-making by the 'gerousia', a body made up of 28 men over the age of 60, who then served for life. This demonstrates the small number of people who got to have a direct say in government.
Pro claim 2
Sparta had two kings, who were believed to be descended from Heracles. Therefore, no ordinary citizen could become king.
Con claim 1, children below
The power of the two kings was counterbalanced by the
ephors
, who were elected.
Con claim 2, children below
The '
apella
' was a Spartan voting body, made up of every male who had reached their thirtieth year.