Final answer:
Ancient Greeks defined democracy as a government form ruled by the majority of citizens. Athens, after the reforms by Solon, became a notable example of early democratic rule, differentiating from an oligarchy, which is ruled by a few elite.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to ancient Greeks, the government form ruled by many is referred to as democracy. In this system, the majority of citizens have the power to make decisions through voting and direct participation. Ancient Athens is one of the earliest examples of a democratic government, where political rule was safely lodged in the majority of citizens after the reforms by Solon around 600 BCE, which ultimately led to an impressive span of democratic rule.
In contrast, the other option provided, oligarchy, is defined as rule by a few elite individuals in service of their own advantage. An oligarchy was often seen in various Greek city-states and contrasts sharply with democracy, where a broad participation in government is encouraged. As for the American revolutionaries after the war for independence, they turned to republicanism which emphasizes elected representatives and the importance of the common good over hereditary rule - a clear departure from a monarchy.