What is Pericles's legacy,impact and influence on his time?

The influences from The Golden Age or Classical Period of Greek rule are indisputable and many are still visible today. Pericles, born in 495 BCE, an applauded Athenian statesman, ruled Athens during the later part of The Golden Age, after the Persian wars ended in 449 BCE. There is still much debate regarding his policies and successes, but Athens was a dominant force and Pericles, a wealthy man, was able to defeat his opponents, particularly Cimon and then to establish himself. He was a champion for the rights of the lower classes and his rule was so successful that it is remembered as the Age of Pericles.

Pericles did, of course, have his critics and his inclusion policies made other prominent statesmen doubt that he could sustain peace. Especially with the threat from Sparta. Despite threats, Pericles maintained his rule until his death and is credited with creating the first "polis" or center in Athens likened to a modern day democracy.

Pericles also commenced with the reconstruction of the Acropolis which had been damaged during the Persian wars. The very famous Parthenon is attributed to Pericles and is a testament to his achievements in promoting culture and inclusive politics. Socrates was born during The Age of Pericles and Pericles himself was a great believer in the value of philosophical thought.