New History of the Marathas v2.c24.77

v2.c24.77

The *dēmos* in the subject cities was not merely a passive recipient of Athenian policy; it was an active participant in the imperial system. By aligning themselves with Athens, the democratic factions in these cities were able to secure their own position against their local rivals. This created a symbiotic relationship between the Athenian *dēmos* and the democratic factions in the subject states. It was a relationship that was both ideological and pragmatic. The Athenians promoted democracy because it was the form of government that was most compatible with their own, and because it provided them with reliable allies. The democratic factions in the subject states supported Athens because it was the only power that could protect them from the *oligoi* and the Spartans.