Final answer:
Greek democracy evolved through various governmental forms, including oligarchy and proto democracy under Solon, finally reaching wider participation under Cleisthenes who allowed all male citizens to vote on public matters. This historical trajectory culminated in what is recognized as the first real democracy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Democracy in Greece developed over time and involved an oligarchical rule that allowed some freedom for the people. During the period between 650-500 BCE, many Greek city-states were governed by tyrants who, while not originally seen as unjust rulers, seized lands from aristocrats and distributed them among free citizens, often to ensure their power and solve social conflicts.
These acts were part of the evolutionary path towards the participatory government systems in Athens. The rule of Solon around 600 BCE was pivotal, as he attempted to outlaw debt slavery and allowed all male citizens to vote on local leaders, setting the groundwork for Athenian democracy.
Later in 508 BCE, Cleisthenes took a significant step towards democracy by allowing all male citizens to vote in public matters and to be eligible to serve in public office, irrespective of their wealth. This move was part of a broader trend towards democratic governance in Athens, where citizens (specifically free adult males) could participate in the governing process, influencing future political systems.