Final answer:
The average population of ancient Athens was estimated to be between 300,000 to 400,000, but only about 50,000 were citizens with political rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
The average population of ancient Athens during the Classical period is estimated to have been between 300,000 and 400,000 people. However, only about 50,000 of those were considered citizens with political rights. According to historical records, citizens of Athens could participate in government by attending the Assembly of the People, where they had a voice in state matters.
In terms of demographics, about 40% of the population of Athens were native-born Athenians, with only 10% of the total population (free native-born males over the age of 20) actually having the right to vote and participate in the democratic process. Athens's wealth and population led to significant political experiments that, while pioneering for their time, still represented a limited form of democracy as we understand it today, with many groups excluded from political life.