The ancient civilization known for its early form of democracy is Athens, Greece. Emerging around the 5th century BCE, Athenian democracy was characterized by direct participation of citizens in political decision-making. Unlike modern representative democracies, Athenian democracy allowed citizens to engage in assembly deliberations, vote on laws, and hold public office, although citizenship was limited to freeborn males. This system laid the foundation for democratic principles and civic responsibility that would influence political thought in later Western civilizations. The democratic practices of Athens significantly impacted later governance and thought, showcasing the value of civic engagement and the importance of individual rights.