Final answer:
Athens became the first democracy because of its cultural values that prioritized individual rights and civic participation, while Sparta became a military power due to its cultural values that emphasized military training and discipline.
Step-by-step explanation:
Athens became the first democracy due to its cultural values that prioritized individual rights and civic participation. The Athenians developed a democratic system where citizens could participate in decision-making through voting. This allowed all adult male citizens to be involved in the government, giving them a voice in the political process.
On the other hand, Sparta became a military power because of its cultural values that emphasized military training and discipline. From a young age, Spartan society focused on producing formidable soldiers through rigorous training programs. This emphasis on military strength and a disciplined lifestyle allowed Sparta to maintain a powerful military.