A wise statesman named Pericles led Athens in much of its Golden Age. He had three goals in ruling Athens. To strengthen the democracy of Athens, to hold and strengthen the ever growing Athenian Empire, and to further glorify Athens. One of Pericles most important acts, was that of introducing Direct Democracy. In a Direct Democracy the citizens rule directly and not through representatives.
After the defeat of Persia in the Persian Wars, Athens organized the Delian League, an alliance of several city states including Athens. Eventually, Athens took over leadership of the league, and dominated all city states within it. The Athenian empire was growing.
Pericles used some of the league's money to create beautiful art and architecture in the city of Athens. Of course, this was without the League's approval, seeing how it was doubtful they would allow this. He persuaded the Athenian assembly to do this, and began to further glorify the awesome, super totally radical, Athenian Empire.
Of course, nothing good ever lasts forever. The Spartans formed the Peloponnesian League and went to war with the Delian League. Both sides fought valiantly, and they eventually signed a truce. Of course, this peace didn't last forever. Athens attacked one of Sparta's closest allies, Syracuse, and failed miserably. There army, navy, everything was wiped out. Very few of Athen's men returned home. They were able to to defend against Spartans attacking Athens for nine years, but eventually the could defend no longer. The Athenians and their allies surrendered. The Golden Age had come to an end.
Great notes, Garrett!
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