Question

Why was Solon chosen to be a leader of Athens?

Answer 1

Solon was selected as a leader of Athens to restore order during a time of economic crisis and social unrest, and to prevent a potential civil war. He instituted reforms such as debt cancellation and the creation of an impartial state governed by written laws, paving the way towards democracy.

Step-by-step explanation:

Solon was chosen to be a leader in Athens due to the widespread social and economic distress that threatened civil war around 594 BCE. He was from an aristocratic family but was regarded as a fair-minded individual who aimed to draft laws that would benefit both rich and poor Athenians. To combat the disparities and avoid the outbreak of civil conflict, Solon enacted debt cancellation, outlawed debt slavery, and restructured the political system. This included establishing a Council that included common citizens and creating jury courts, which allowed for appeal against the decisions of magistrates. Solon's vision was of an impersonal state, governed by written laws rather than the whims of the elite. These reforms laid the groundwork for the eventual introduction of democracy in Athens.

Answer 2

Solon was chosen to design a system for Athens (which would eventually become democracy under Cleisthenes) because at the time, indebted Athenians were being sold into slavery and resentment for the upper class amongst poor people were building and the aristocrats feared a revolution. Solon was chosen because he was both of aristocratic birth and trusted by the common Athenians, acting as the link between both.