Meaning: The quote "Imperialism was genuinely popular among Athenians who would expect to share in its profits, even if only indirectly and collectively, and not to have to bear its burdens" by J. Roberts encapsulates the complex relationship between imperialism, power, and the expectations of the people it impacts. In order to fully understand the quote, it's essential to delve into the historical context of Athens, especially during its imperialistic phase, and to examine the dynamics of imperialism, its popularity, and the implications for both the ruling class and the general populace.

During the 5th century BCE, Athens experienced a period of great expansion and influence. This expansion was driven by imperialism, as Athens sought to increase its power and wealth through the acquisition of overseas territories and the establishment of an empire. The Athenian Empire was built on the subjugation of other city-states and the extraction of tribute and resources from them. This imperialistic endeavor brought immense wealth and resources to Athens, enabling the city to flourish economically and culturally.

The quote suggests that imperialism was popular among the Athenians, indicating that they supported and benefited from the empire-building efforts of their city-state. The prospect of sharing in the profits of imperialism would have been appealing to many Athenians, as it promised increased wealth and prosperity for the city as a whole. This indirect and collective sharing of profits implies that the benefits of imperialism were not limited to a select few, but were expected to trickle down to the broader population.

At the same time, the quote alludes to the idea that the Athenians did not want to bear the burdens of imperialism. This is a crucial aspect to consider, as it highlights the dichotomy between the allure of wealth and power on one hand, and the aversion to the responsibilities and costs associated with maintaining an empire on the other. It suggests that while the Athenians were attracted to the material gains brought about by imperialism, they were less enthusiastic about the potential hardships and sacrifices it might entail.

The popularity of imperialism among the Athenians can be linked to several factors. Firstly, the economic benefits of imperialism would have been a significant driving force. The acquisition of tributes, resources, and trade opportunities from the empire would have enriched the city and its inhabitants, leading to a higher standard of living and increased opportunities for prosperity. Additionally, the political and military power that came with imperialism would have bolstered the pride and sense of identity of the Athenians, further contributing to its popularity.

Moreover, the collective nature of the benefits implied in the quote suggests a sense of community and shared destiny among the Athenians. The idea that the profits of imperialism would be enjoyed collectively by the populace reflects a vision of a unified and prosperous Athens, where the rewards of expansion would be distributed among all citizens. This collective benefit would have fostered a sense of solidarity and support for the imperialistic endeavors of the city-state.

On the other hand, the reluctance to bear the burdens of imperialism speaks to the potential downsides and complexities of maintaining an empire. The costs of military campaigns, the administration of subject territories, and the potential for conflict and opposition from other city-states would have been daunting prospects. The quote suggests that the Athenians were more enthusiastic about reaping the rewards of imperialism than they were about dealing with the challenges and responsibilities that came with it.

In conclusion, the quote by J. Roberts provides valuable insight into the attitudes of the Athenians towards imperialism. It highlights the appeal of sharing in the profits of imperialism and the collective benefits it promised, while also acknowledging the reluctance to bear its burdens. By examining the historical context and the dynamics of imperialism in ancient Athens, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of popular support for imperialistic endeavors and the expectations of the people impacted by them.