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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.