Origins of the Polis

Abstract

This chapter begins with a brief history of the period prior to c.750 B.C., after which the polis began to appear as the typical form of governance throughout much of Greece. It then documents the various power struggles that occurred down to c.594 B.C., when Solon was appointed as mediator to resolve a major conflict, one that had developed within the aristocracy but also concerned relations between the rich and poor. The remainder of the chapter highlights Solon’s economic reforms, including the cancellation of debts and debt-bondage, which were critical to maintaining the independence of small farmers; and his political reforms, which established most of the major institutions of Athenian democracy.