What does the term 'citizen' refer to in the context of a city-state?

In the context of a city-state, the term 'citizen' specifically refers to a male member of the society who possesses certain rights and privileges that come with that status. Historically, citizenship in many ancient city-states, such as those in Greece, was often limited to free-born males who were born to citizen parents and had completed a certain level of civic responsibility, such as military service. These citizens participated in political life, making decisions on governance and laws, thereby distinguishing them from residents who may not have had the same rights, such as women, slaves, or foreigners.

This definition emphasizes the exclusive nature of citizenship in many ancient societies, wherein the right to participate in political life was reserved for a specific demographic group, rather than being inclusive of all individuals residing within the city-state. Understanding this concept helps to shed light on the nature of political and social structures in early civilizations and the roles played by different groups within these communities.