Blog Day Twenty-Nine: Cyber Class Assignment 1

Pericles was a popular statesman in Athens from 461-429 B.C. Pericles was a politician, speaker, as well as a general for Athens. He held the popular support in Athens for around 32 years. In that time, he had three goals for Athens. One was to strengthen Athens democracy, two was to hold and strengthen Athens empire, and three was to glorify Athens. Pericles strengthen Athens democracy by adding more paying positions for public officials. Before, only wealthier men could hold unpaid positions. Now, Pericles made it so that lower class citizens could rule if chosen for office. By doing this, Pericles strengthen Athens direct democracy. A direct democracy is run by citizens directly, not through representatives. Pericles was able to strengthen Athens empire by ruling the Delian League. The Delian League was ruled by Athens who; therefore, rule all the city-states who were in the League. Pericles use money from the Delian League to make Athens navy the best in the Mediterranean. A strong navy meant a safer and stronger Athens. Pericles also used money from the Delian League to beautify Athens. He convinced the assembly to vote for Athens to buy gold, silver, and marble and to pay the artists that were making Athens beautiful. Pericles did great things for Athens.