Final answer:
Democracy began in Athens, where around 500 BCE 'rule by the people' took root as a new form of governance. Known for its rich cultural achievements and the rise of influential democratic leaders like Cleisthenes, Athens remains notable in history as the cradle of democracy and a beacon of Classical Age Greece.Option A is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Athens, around 500 BCE, the concept of 'rule by the people,' or democracy, began to take form, distinguishing it as the birthplace of this political system. Following key victories against the Persians, Athens, contrary to Sparta's militaristic stance, fostered a culture rich in art, drama, and philosophy, and saw the rise of influential figures such as Cleisthenes, who played a pivotal role in establishing its democratic foundations.
As Athens flourished, it saw a Golden Age when its culture, influence, and the practice of democracy reached its zenith. Notably, throughout the Classical Age, despite inner tensions and eventual conflicts such as the Peloponnesian War with Sparta, Athens' contributions to Western civilization remained significant, with the city-state nurturing great philosophers and iconic architectural marvels like the Parthenon.
Around 500 BCE, Athens pioneered the concept of democracy, evolving it into a political system. Victories against Persia set Athens apart from Sparta's militarism, cultivating a culture of art, philosophy, and drama. Key figures like Cleisthenes laid the democratic groundwork. In its Golden Age, Athens thrived culturally and politically, reaching its pinnacle. Despite conflicts like the Peloponnesian War, its enduring contributions to Western civilization, including renowned philosophers and architectural masterpieces like the Parthenon, solidified Athens' historical significance.