Question

To what extent can we in America trace our democratic ideals and institutions back to Athens? Do the failings of Athenian democracy mirror our own? What parallels can you draw between the cultures of 5th-century Athens and today's United States?​

Answer 1

You can see the basics of American democracy in Athens, such as voting on leaders and having separate houses that have separate roles, but the extent of these comparisons are limited, as there are many differences.

This chart here should help define the basics of Athenian Democracy:

You can probably find other, better materials on better websites, but these should help.