Athens After the Greco-Persian Wars

During the Greco-Persian wars, the Persians burned Athens to the ground, in 480 B.C.E., after defeating the Greeks in the Battle of Thermopylae. Although the Greeks eventually defeated the Persians, the wars left Athens in ruins.

Pericles, Leader of Athens From about 460 to 429 B.C.E., Pericles was the leader of Athens’  government. One of his chief contributions was to direct the rebuilding of the city. Pericles promoted constructing of many public and religious buildings, including the Parthenon, the most famous temple in Athens.

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Pericles believed that Athens was a model—in culture and in government—for all the Greek city-states. While the leader of Athens, he encouraged creativity in all of the arts, including music and drama. He was an avid supporter of democracy and created reforms to encourage its growth. He believed that all citizens had an equal right to participate in government. Under Pericles'  leadership, Athens paid the salaries of men who held public office. This enabled poor men, who would otherwise have been unable to afford to leave their jobs and farms, the opportunity to serve in government positions.

As a leader, what did Pericles not believe in?

Where did Pericles rule?

According to the video what did not Pericles accomplish?

In your opinion was Pericles an effective leader? Use evidence to support your claim.