They started writing things down and developed early literature.
Constructed monumental architecture to symbolize their power (Acropolis)
Athens was the worlds first democracy with a cosmopolitan world view (international culture).
Developed political, military, social, and religious structures
For all of their brilliant accomplishments, the Greeks were unable to rise above the divisions and rivalries that caused them to fight each other and undermine their own civilization.
Greece went from the Egyptian belief that their rulers were actually Gods