Age of Pericles (445 BC–429 BC)

Pericles was a famous orator who had great success in the Greek Assembly. He was a superb statesman. Under his rule, Athens expanded, and the state instituted a wide range of events. At the height of Pericles' power, the Parthenon was also being built.

The thetes, or the lowest socioeconomic class of people, were permitted to hold public office as part of a number of reforms made by Pericles. The change gave the thetes, who were underprivileged, the chance to support themselves. The development of the misophonia, or "paid function," where citizens were paid very well to appear in court as jurors, was another successful step.

The educated people of Athens. Boys were first educated at home until they were required to attend school at age seven. The primary courses were mathematics and music, and physical education was rigorous, which helped kids cultivate a spirit of sportsmanship. Because of the patriarchal nature of Athenian society, girls and women were expected to remain at home.

There was no opposition to Pericles' authority. He was in charge of Athens throughout the majority of the fifth century BC and held that position until his death in 429 BC.