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Pericles (495 - 429 BC) wore many hats. He was a Greek statesman, a politician, and a military leader. He also promoted arts and literature, and had such a profound impact on the Athenian society, that he was deemed "the first citizen of Athens."
Pericles was the ruler of Athens from 461 BC until he died of the plague in 429 BC.
His political legacy is that of Athenian Imperialism which denies democracy and freedom to all but the ruling state, and this is said to have ruined Athens.
When the government or the ruling class are the only ones with rights and privileges and freedom, the remaining populace are but subjects.
Hi Linda .. Interesting - I didn't know that .. some of us seem to be like that now - and many outside of theoretical democratic states definitely so ..
ReplyDeleteHave a good Easter - Hilary
Thought provoking, Linda. But having to defend Freedom sort of takes away the whole concept of it, doesn't it?
ReplyDeleteHilary- I continually learn something through blogging, especially the quotes. The idea of being at the mercy of those in power does not set well with me.
ReplyDeleteTalon- No, actually it doesn't. Our freedom was fought for many years ago, and the wise men who wrote our Constitution and the Bill of Rights knew what government is capable of. Because of the 2nd Amendment we have the right (and duty) to defend our freedom. When something you cherish is threatened, you defend it.