Final answer:
The characteristic of government associated with Athens is Direct Democracy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristic of government associated with Athens is Direct Democracy. In the fifth century BCE, Athens implemented a system of direct democracy, in which participating citizens voted directly on legislation and executive bills. This form of government allowed adult, land-owning men to participate in decision-making processes. It is estimated that approximately 15% of the Athenian citizens were eligible to vote.