The ancient civilization known for the concept of democracy is Athens, in Ancient Greece. Around the 5th century BC, Athenians developed a system of direct democracy where citizens could participate in decision-making processes. This system allowed free males to vote on legislation and executive bills, shaping governmental structures and political thought. The Athenian experiment in democracy laid foundational principles for modern democratic systems, such as citizen participation, equality before the law, and the idea of civic responsibility. Although limited in its inclusivity—excluding women, slaves, and foreigners—it has had a profound influence on democratic ideologies throughout history.