Democracy was born in Athens. From its founding myths to its golden age and chaotic downfall, it is rich with lessons for our own times. Why did vital political engagement and fair discussion result in paralysis and populism? Can we compare Creon with Trump, Democracy with the American Constitution, or Demosthenes with the Brexit campaign? And how did a second referendum process save the Athenians from a bloodthirsty decision? With vibrancy and insight, the heroics and critics of Athenian democracy are analyzed in light of today's politics, revealing in all its glory and flaws the system that continues to wield the power of the people.