This inquiry is an exploration into the roots of our modern democracy. It uncovers the idea that a deep influence of Greek architecture (columns on the Parthenon, U. S. Supreme Court building), law, and the Olympic Games impacts the present. It also compares and contrasts Athens as a direct democracy and the United States as a representative democracy, finally leading into deep discussion about how ancient Athenians’ idea that a community should choose its own leaders is deeply rooted in our present form of electing officials.