Which class in Greece was made of slaves? aristocracy rulers perioeci helot

History · High School · Thu Feb 04 2021

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In ancient Greece, the class made up of slaves was known as "helots." Helots were an enslaved population in the city-state of Sparta. Unlike other Greek city-states, where slavery was also present, Sparta's helots constituted a specific social group subjected to a system of forced labor.

The helots were primarily agricultural laborers who worked the land, allowing the free citizens of Sparta, known as Spartiates, to focus on military training and civic duties. The helots were bound to the land they worked and were considered the property of the state.

The other terms mentioned:

  • Aristocracy: This refers to the ruling class of noble or privileged individuals. In ancient Greece, aristocrats were often wealthy landowners with political influence.
  • Rulers: This term is general and can apply to various classes, depending on the context. It could refer to aristocrats, monarchs, or elected officials, depending on the specific government structure of a particular city-state.
  • Perioeci: The perioeci were free residents of Sparta who were not citizens (Spartiates) but were not enslaved like the helots. They had certain rights and responsibilities but did not enjoy the full privileges of Spartan citizenship.