Solon - Why Was He Important

1806 Words8 Pages
Solon was essential in the development of the Athenian government and society in the 5th century. Although, he is greatly credited for being the founder of democracy – setting the wheels in motion for future Athenian leaders, he is also famously known for his long-term successful reforms. Solon was born in a time of aristocracy, when he reached maturity he was called on as archon and was asked to change the laws to benefit the state. With this in mind, Solon made his reforms, making changes such as the freeing of indebted people (also known as the ‘Shaking off of Burdens’), the rejuvenation of the social classes and the introduction of a council of representatives. While his reforms were beneficial for society, people as a whole did not accept his changes, thus causing him to leave the state. Solon was born in 638 BC in Athens; belonging to the Eupatrids clan he was of very high importance. Solon was an Athenian statesmen and poet before he became archon. His poems were what got him his first appearance in the field of politics. During their conflict between Megara, Athens confidence in their troops was quickly deteriorating, when Solon - doing what he did best - cleverly tricked them into action through the use of his poems. Solon wrote “I have come as a herald from lovely Salamis, and have composed a song, an ornament of words, instead of speech, May I be then a man of Pholegandros or Sikinos, instead of an Athenian, after changing my native land; for this would shortly be men’s common talk: “This man is an Athenian, one of the family that let Salamis go” Let us go to Salamis, to fight for an island that is lovely, and repel grievous shame”(Solon, Salamis) Thus gaining the trust of his fellow Athenian citizens he was chosen as Meditator and Archon, receiving permission to do what he deemed was good for the state. This is supported by Aristotle – Aristotle is
Open Document