What term describes the city-state that developed as a form of local government in ancient Greece?

The term that describes the city-state that developed as a form of local government in ancient Greece is "polis." In ancient Greece, the polis was more than just a geographical area; it represented a community of citizens with their own customs, laws, and governance structures. Each polis functioned as an independent city-state, complete with its own political institutions and military organization. This allowed for a rich diversity of governance and social organization throughout Greece, with famous examples including Athens and Sparta.

The concept of the polis was fundamental to Greek identity and political life, fostering civic participation among its citizens. Each polis was typically built around a fortified hill, known as an acropolis, and included an agora, or marketplace, where social, economic, and political activities occurred. This unique structure set the foundation for political philosophy and practices that have had a lasting impact on Western civilization.