There is limited evidence that suggests that Sparta had elements of democracy. However, some researchers argue that the Spartan system of government had some aspects of democratic participation. For instance, Sparta had two councils, Gerousia and Apella, which were composed of male citizens over the age of 60 and 30, respectively. While Gerousia was a smaller and more exclusive council, Apella was open to all Spartan citizens. The Apella was responsible for electing the Ephors, a group of five officials who had considerable power and influence over Spartan society. In addition, Spartan citizens shared equal rights and responsibilities, including education, military training, and political participation. This equal distribution of rights and responsibilities was a key feature of democratic governance. However, it is important to note that Sparta's system of government was highly centralized and controlled by a small group of elites, which makes it difficult to classify it as a fully democratic society.
