Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈiːk sˈɪti stˈe͡ɪts] (IPA) 
The spelling of "Greek city states" is straightforward once you know how to pronounce it. In IPA phonetic transcription, "Greek" is spelled as /ɡriːk/, with a long "e" sound at the end. "City" is spelled as /ˈsɪti/, with the stress on the first syllable, and "states" is spelled as /steɪts/, with a long "a" sound in the second syllable. Overall, the word is pronounced as /ɡriːk ˈsɪti steɪts/.
Greek city-states were independent and self-governing political entities that emerged during the ancient period in Greece, typically known as the Classical Age. These city-states, also referred to as polis, were characterized by their autonomy in political, economic, social, and military matters. The polis consisted of an urban center, often fortified, and the surrounding agricultural land, which supported the population.
Each Greek city-state had its own unique set of laws, forms of government, and governing institutions. Some of the most prominent city-states included Athens, Sparta, Corinth, Thebes, and Syracuse. Athens, known for its democracy, intellectual pursuits, and cultural achievements, was a significant center for art, philosophy, and politics. Sparta, on the other hand, emphasized militarism, discipline, and an oligarchic form of government.
The Greek city-states had territorial sovereignty and could conduct their own foreign policies and form alliances with other city-states. However, they frequently engaged in rivalries, conflicts, and wars with each other. Despite these differences and hostilities, the Greeks recognized a shared cultural heritage, language, and religious beliefs.
The polis served as the foundation of Greek identity, with citizens, who were adult male property owners, actively participating in the political, military, and judicial affairs. Women, slaves, and foreigners, however, were largely excluded from the benefits and privileges of citizenship.
The Greek city-states were significantly influential in shaping the political, cultural, and philosophical institutions of Western civilization. They laid the groundwork for democratic principles, ideas of civic duty, and the pursuit of knowledge that have persisted through the ages.
