The essential document that defined the rights of citizens in ancient Athens was the Constitution of Athens, attributed to the philosopher Aristotle. This document outlined the democratic principles that governed the city-state, emphasizing citizen participation in politics, including the rights to vote and hold public office. The Constitution established a system where male citizens had a direct say in governance through assemblies and councils. It reflected the values of equality and civic duty that were central to Athenian democracy. The work detailed the functioning of various organs of government, including the courts and the assembly, and laid the groundwork for later democratic systems.