Athenian Democracy: Solon, Cleisthenes, Pericles Reforms

Solon's Economic & Social Reforms

Solon implemented significant economic, social, and political changes, including freeing those enslaved by debt and prohibiting using oneself as loan collateral. He also reformed government institutions.

Cleisthenes' Democratic Reforms

Cleisthenes, in the late sixth century BC, organized citizens into demes based on residence, not birth or wealth. He expanded citizen participation, ensuring equal rights for all.

Pericles' Athenian Democracy

Pericles perfected the democratic system by transferring powers from the aristocratic Areopagus to the ecclesia. He introduced payments for public service, making it accessible beyond the wealthy, thus solidifying Athenian democracy in the 5th century BC.

Contrasting Political Models

Spartan Social Organization

• Dominated by warrior culture
• 7% citizens, 93% non-citizens (Perioeci: traders/manufacturers, Helots: slave peasants)

Athenian Focus

• Emphasis on arts and letters
• Conquerors controlled prime land, ensuring social control through food surplus
• Landowning gentry held political power

Early Greek Political Concepts

• Politics: Resolution of polis affairs
• Politeia: Citizen of the polis
• Primus inter pari: Basileus (interpreted laws received through dreams)

Dark Ages (1200 BC - 800 BC)

Social problems arose due to limited food, aristocratic land control, and population growth. This led to colonization as a solution to reduce the polis population.

Causes of Emigration

(Further details on emigration causes to be added)