The ancient Greek city-state of Athens took the greatest steps toward establishing democratic government. Athens developed a system of direct democracy, in which all male citizens (over the age of 18) had the right to participate in the assembly, which voted on laws and policies. All citizens could also serve on juries, or be elected to public office. This system was not without its flaws, such as the exclusion of women, slaves, and foreigners from political participation, but it represented a significant advancement in democratic governance compared to other ancient civilizations.