Pericles was a famous leader in Ancient Greece. He lived around 2,500 years ago in a city called Athens. Pericles was not a king, but he was a very important man. He was called a statesman, which means he helped make big decisions for his city.

Pericles was born into a rich and powerful family. This meant he had access to a good education. He learned many things, including how to speak well in public. People loved to listen to Pericles speak because he was so good with words.

One of Pericles’ biggest achievements was leading Athens during a time called the Golden Age. This was a period when Athens became very powerful and wealthy. Pericles helped to make Athens a center of art, culture, and learning. He believed in supporting the arts and building beautiful buildings. Some of the most famous buildings in Athens, like the Parthenon, were built during his time as a leader.

Pericles was also a strong believer in democracy. In Ancient Greece, citizens could vote on important decisions. Pericles made sure that more people could take part in the government, not just the rich. He also paid citizens for their work in the government, so even poor people could take part.

However, Pericles’ time as a leader was not without challenges. He faced wars with other city-states and a terrible plague that killed many Athenians, including Pericles himself.

Even though he faced difficulties, Pericles is remembered as one of the greatest leaders in Ancient Greece. His ideas about democracy and his support for the arts left a lasting impact on the world.

 

TEST 15

1. Where did Pericles live? 

A) Rome

B) Athens 

C) Sparta

D) Troy

 

2. What was Pericles’ occupation? 

A) King

B) Statesman 

C) Soldier

D) Farmer

 

3. What was the Golden Age? 

A) A time of war

B) A period of peace and prosperity 

C) A time of famine

D) A period of darkness

 

4. What did Pericles believe in? 

A) Supporting the arts

B) Building beautiful buildings 

C) Democracy

D) All of the above

 

5. What did Pericles do to involve more people in the government? 

A) He only allowed rich people to participate. 

B) He paid citizens for their work in the government. 

C) He banned poor people from voting. 

D) He didn’t care about involving people in the government.

 

6. How did Pericles die? 

A) In a war 

B) In a plague 

C) In a natural disaster 

D) In a peaceful sleep