Council of 400

Purpose

• Governing body that prepared the agenda for the Assembly.

• Oversaw the day-to-day administration of Athens.

Membership

• Composed of 400 citizens selected from the four social classes established by Solon.

• Ensured broader representation and participation in governance.

Significance

• Expanded political participation beyond the traditional aristocratic elite.

• A significant step towards a more democratic system.

Hellaia

Purpose

• Appeals court that allowed citizens to challenge decisions made by the magistrates (thesmothetai).

Accessibility

• Any adult male citizen could appeal to the Hellaia, ensuring justice was accessible to all.

Significance

• Strengthened the rule of law by providing a mechanism for appealing decisions.

• Ensured citizens had recourse against unjust judgments.

Public Indictment

Reform

• Expanded the right to bring charges from only the victim or their family to any citizen.

Significance

• Empowered ordinary citizens to hold individuals accountable for their actions.

• Promoted civic responsibility and justice.

Overall Impact of Solon’s Reforms

• Shifted balance of power in Athens.

• Reduced dominance of the aristocratic elite.

• Gave a greater voice to the broader citizenry.

Key Points on Cleisthenes' Reforms

Breaking Down Traditional Power Structures

• Demes: Division of Attica into demes weakened traditional clans and families, decentralizing power and encouraging community autonomy.

• Tribes: Creation of ten new tribes diluted the influence of old aristocratic families, promoting unity among diverse citizens.

Enhancing Citizen Participation

• Council of Five Hundred: Increased membership to 500; each tribe elected 50 representatives, ensuring broader representation.

• Popular Assembly: Remained supreme governing body; reforms strengthened its power by increasing eligible citizens.

Promoting Equality and Justice

• Ostracism: Allowed temporary banishment of individuals deemed dangerous, maintaining political stability and preventing tyranny.

Overall Impact of Cleisthenes' Reforms

• Transformed Athenian society and laid groundwork for a more democratic and inclusive political system.

• Weakened traditional power structures, increased citizen participation, and promoted equality and justice, creating a lasting democratic legacy.