Ancient Greece was home to the world's first known democracy. This unique form of government originated in the city-state of Athens around 508 BCE under the leadership of Cleisthenes. Unlike other political systems at the time, Athenian democracy allowed eligible citizens to have a direct say in the governance of their city. While this democratic system was limited in its inclusivity, excluding women, slaves, and non-Athenian residents, it laid the groundwork for the modern democratic systems we have today.