Solon's Reforms in Athens

Timeline

1. -594Athens · AtticaDebt slavery and land consolidation provoked confrontation between commoners and nobles; Solon was chosen as archon and arbiter, empowered to carry out reforms to resolve the city-state's crisis.
2. -594Athens · AtticaSolon declared the abolition of debt slavery, ransomed Athenians sold abroad, banned pledging one's person as collateral, and encouraged commerce, industry, and immigration to ease land and debt tensions.
3. -594Athens · AtticaFour property classes determined eligibility for political participation; the Council of Four Hundred and a citizen jury court were established, broadening commoners' channels for public affairs and laying the rudiments of Athenian democracy.