Athens is often regarded as the birthplace of democracy in ancient Greece. By the 5th century BCE, Athens had developed a system of government characterized by the involvement of its citizens in civic decision-making processes. This early form of direct democracy allowed free male citizens to participate in assemblies where they could vote on important policies and laws. Key figures, such as Cleisthenes and Pericles, played vital roles in shaping this democratic system. Athenian democracy laid the groundwork for modern democratic principles, influencing political thought and governance structures in societies worldwide.