Which city-state is associated with an authoritarian government?

Which city-state is associated with an authoritarian government?

• A. Athens
• B. Sparta
• C. Thebes
• D. Corinth

Answer: (B)

Authoritarian government concentrates power in a small ruling group or elite, with limited political participation from the broader population and strict, centralized control over society. Sparta fits this model through its oligarchic system: two kings and the ruling Gerousia (council of elders) held significant authority, while the ephors could override decisions and enforce laws. The Assembly had limited real power, and everyday political influence was restricted to a narrow citizen group, with slaves and other groups having little or no political rights. This emphasis on centralized, hierarchical control and restricted participation is what characterizes Sparta as the city-state associated with authoritarian governance. In contrast, Athens is renowned for its early democracy, and Thebes and Corinth experienced oligarchic periods without the same consistent authoritarian framework as Sparta.

Authoritarian government concentrates power in a small ruling group or elite, with limited political participation from the broader population and strict, centralized control over society. Sparta fits this model through its oligarchic system: two kings and the ruling Gerousia (council of elders) held significant authority, while the ephors could override decisions and enforce laws. The Assembly had limited real power, and everyday political influence was restricted to a narrow citizen group, with slaves and other groups having little or no political rights. This emphasis on centralized, hierarchical control and restricted participation is what characterizes Sparta as the city-state associated with authoritarian governance. In contrast, Athens is renowned for its early democracy, and Thebes and Corinth experienced oligarchic periods without the same consistent authoritarian framework as Sparta.