Tyranny of Peisistratos: What Happened
In the 6th century BC, the Athenian aristocrat Peisistratos seized power and ruled Athens as a tyrant, a word that in ancient Greece simply meant a ruler who took power outside the normal system, not necessarily a cruel one. He made two failed attempts, starting around 561 BC, before securing lasting control in 546 BC with the help of mercenaries and wealthy allies. Peisistratos kept Solon's laws in place while making sure his supporters held key offices. He gave loans to poor farmers, encouraged trade and pottery exports, and launched major building projects, including a new water supply and a huge temple to Olympian Zeus that was not finished for centuries. He expanded the Panathenaic festival and religious celebrations, helping Athens grow into a cultural center. Tradition also credits him with ordering the first official written version of Homer's epics. After his death in 527 BC, his sons Hippias and Hipparchus took over. Hipparchus was assassinated in 514 BC, and Hippias was driven out in 510 BC, opening the way for Cleisthenes and democracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Peisistratos?
Peisistratos was an Athenian aristocrat who seized power and ruled Athens as a tyrant in the 6th century BC. He secured lasting control in 546 BC after two earlier attempts.
What did tyrant mean in ancient Greece?
In ancient Greece, a tyrant was a ruler who took power outside the normal system of government. The word did not necessarily mean a cruel ruler, and some tyrants were popular.
What did Peisistratos do for Athens?
Peisistratos helped poor farmers, encouraged trade and exports, built a new water supply and began the huge Temple of Olympian Zeus. He also expanded festivals such as the Panathenaia.
Did Peisistratos have Homer written down?
According to tradition, Peisistratos ordered the first official written version of Homer's Iliad and Odyssey. Historians debate how much of this story is true.
What happened after Peisistratos died?
His sons Hippias and Hipparchus took over in 527 BC. Hipparchus was assassinated in 514 BC, and Hippias was driven out in 510 BC, opening the way for Cleisthenes' democratic reforms.
