Pericles

ancient Greece · leadership · democracy · history

Built magnificent Athens. Pericles used the wealth of Athens to construct amazing buildings like the Parthenon, a temple so beautiful that people still travel from around the world to see its ruins today.

Powerful public speaker. Pericles was famous for his ability to convince people with his words, and Athenians called him their 'first citizen' because they trusted his judgment so much.

Won wars for Athens. He led Athens to victory against the Persians, who had invaded Greece, and then made Athens the leader of all the Greek city-states that joined together for protection.

Golden Age ruler. The time when Pericles governed, from about 461 to 429 BC, was so amazing for art, philosophy, and building that people called it the 'Age of Pericles' and it's still remembered as one of history's greatest periods.

Supported artists and thinkers. Pericles encouraged playwrights, sculptors, and philosophers to create their best work, making Athens the place where brilliant ideas and beautiful art flourished.