What lasting contributions did Greece make to democracy?

Greece, particularly through the city-state of Athens, laid the foundational principles of democracy, introducing concepts such as direct participation of citizens in governance and the idea of equal voting rights. The Athenian assembly allowed citizens to debate and vote on laws, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement. Additionally, Greek philosophers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle explored political theory, influencing later democratic thought on justice, governance, and the role of the individual in society. These contributions have significantly shaped modern democratic systems worldwide.