Athenian Elites Competed Through Spending

In ancient Athens, the 300 wealthiest citizens paid annual public-service taxes called leitourgiai, meaning "work for the people." Instead of simply handing money to the state, they funded dramatic festivals, public celebrations, religious processions, gymnasiums, and the maintenance of trireme warships. Athenians considered this responsibility a high honor, and wealthy taxpayers competed to spend beyond the minimum requirement and provide the greatest public benefit.

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