Pericles's helmet was not to make him look military, but to cover his baldness.

Pericles was born into a wealthy, upper-class family in Athens. His father was a famous general. Pericles learned about politics and public speaking from the best teachers in Athens. This education helped him as a leader to bring stability to the city-state.

Pericles became very popular as a leader and as a great speaker. One of the most famous speeches in ancient Greek history was Pericles' Funeral Oration for soldiers killed in the Peloponnesian War.

Pericles started many building projects. Most of the structures that still exist today on the Acropolis of Athens were built at that time. He also convinced the city leaders to build the Long Walls that protected trade routes. His greatest contribution to Athens was his leadership in supporting a democratic government.