Solon

Definition

Solon (c. 640 – c. 560 BCE) was an Athenian statesman, lawmaker, and poet, who is credited with restructuring the social and political organisation of Athens and thereby laying the foundations for Athenian democracy. Such were his accomplishments that, in later centuries, he became a sort of semi-mythical founding father figure who had set Athens on the path to the glory and prosperity the city enjoyed in the Classical period.

More about: Solon

Timeline

  • c. 640 BCE - c. 560 BCE
    Life of Athenian statesman and lawmaker Solon.
  • c. 621 BCE
    Draco produces a new law code in Athens.
  • 594 BCE - 593 BCE
    In Athens the archon Solon lays the foundations for democracy.
  • c. 508 BCE
    Reforms by Cleisthenes establishes democracy in Athens.
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