Greece

Greece invented the prose style of writing. Before that it was common to write poetry. However, writing to convey a message, to represent a reality either physically or mentally, had not been invented before the ancient Greeks. Herodotus, the first historian of about 450 BC, was also one of the first prose writers.

This invention of prose, coupled with a related increase in literacy, must have had a liberating effect on the common man. To be able to read and write well is to be able to think well. One can then use discernment and judgement. This use of discernment and judgement by the common citizen is essential for the proliferation and maintanence of participatory government. These two qualities added to courage makes up the Free Citizen.