Final answer:
The Greeks are responsible for starting several cultural innovations including democracy, philosophy, theater, and the Olympics. Democracy emerged in Athens around 500 BCE with Cleisthenes playing a significant role. Theater was heavily tied to religious ceremonies and evolved into structured drama, while the Olympics began as a sporting and religious festival.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Greeks are widely credited with numerous cultural innovations, among which they are responsible for starting democracy, philosophy, theater, and the Olympics.
Around 500 BCE, Athens became the heart of Greek democracy, emerging as a city where 'rule by the people' was practiced, and which saw its golden age after the defeat of the Persian invasion. This period was rich in developments in drama, philosophy, and art, among other advancements. The Athenian leader Cleisthenes played a significant role in laying the foundations of Athenian democracy during the late sixth century BCE. The Athenians valued their democratic system highly and considered it a source of immense civic pride.
Furthermore, Greek culture was pivotal in the creation of theater as it is known today. Originating from the worship of gods like Dionysus, Greek theater evolved from religious celebrations into structured plays that included actors and a chorus. This transformation became a cornerstone of ancient Greek culture and its dramatic legacy.
The ancient Greeks also organized the first Olympics, a sporting event that was part religious festival and part athletic competition, beginning in Olympia during the 8th century BCE. This tradition continues to influence global sporting events today.
Thus, while the Greeks did not invent the essential elements of civilization, they were instrumental in the development of many aspects that form the basis of modern Western culture.