500
How does the Athenian culture differ from the Spartan culture?
In Sparta, military strength was used to control the city-state. Boys were taken from home at age 7
for training. Training continued until age 18. Boys were often tortured by older boys, beaten in
front of others without crying out, and made to sleep on bare floors to make them tough. Athenian
men served in the army only during war times.
Sparta had 2 kings. Kings had little authority except in war. Each king was part of a 30 member
senate (all 60 years or older). All male citizens were allowed to participate in the assembly. Five
wealthy landowners were elected to handle daily governing (euphors). Senators and euphors held
the most power. A small group like this is an oligarchy. Athenian citizens were encouraged to
participate in government (democracy – rule by the people). Every free man over the age of 20 had
full political rights and took part in the assemblies. Each man had one vote, and the majority ruled.