What is Ekklesia?

"Gathering of those summoned"

• Assembly within the city-states

• Meeting depended on the system of government

Athenian Ekklesia

• Consisted of males ages 18 or older

• Simple majority, typically by show of hands

• Made decisions on matters brought up by the Boule

  • The Boule was the body of representatives within Ancient Greece

Spartan Ekklesia

• Decisions made by the Ekklesia were very limited

• Typically debated actions presented by the Elders, aka the council of elite.

• Allowed to "elect" officials to the council

  • Chose from selected elite who were pre-approved by the 2 kings who oversaw the council.