The ancient Greek civilization began about 1200 BCE.  The ancient Greeks were quite renowned for their political, philosophical, and scientific achievements. They invented several entertainment forms that we still use today, such as the Olympics and theater, as well as advancing education by creating the first complete alphabet and improving literature (especially with poetry). 

As stated previously, ancient Greece had many political achievements. One of these political achievements is the development of Direct Democracy. The specific Greek city-state (or polis/eis) that started implementing this form of government was Athens. But first, what was a Greek city-state? And, how did they come about? A Greek city-state was a small, self-governing, independent city made up of a central city and the surrounding territory. They all created their own laws, had their own government, and military. Greek city-states were made primarily because of the geography of ancient Greece. Greece was characterized by its mountainous terrain, islands, and sea. Greek city-states often were at war with each other, causing an even further divide between them.

The ancient Greeks heavily depended on their religion. Their religion was polytheistic and centered on a pantheon of gods. Some of these gods included Hera (queen of gods) Poseidon (god of sea), Athena (goddess of wisdom) and, of course, Zeus (the king of the gods). The ancient Greeks used the gods to explain things such as natural phenomena, as well as allowing the gods to influence numerous parts of their civilization such as daily life, politics, art through religion, mythology, prophecy, and more.  The Greeks honored their gods through temples, monuments, and rituals that helped them seek their favor and protection.