The ancient civilization credited with the development of democracy in the 5th century BC is Ancient Greece, particularly the city-state of Athens. Athenian democracy allowed a form of direct participation where citizens could engage in decision-making processes. Important aspects included the assembly, where free male citizens debated and voted on laws, and the selection of public officials via lottery. This system promoted civic engagement and laid the groundwork for contemporary democratic principles, although it excluded women, slaves, and non-citizens from participation.