Solon's Reforms (594 BCE):
1. Judicial Reforms: Solon established the Heliaia, a popular court composed of citizens drawn from all social classes, which replaced the traditional aristocratic courts. This made the legal process more accessible to the common people.
2. Political Reforms: Solon created a new classification system based on wealth rather than birth. The wealthy upper class (the Pentacosiomedimni), the mid-wealth class (the Hippeis), and the lower-wealth class (the Zeugitai) all gained political rights.
3. Council of 400: Solon established a Council of 400, which was composed of 100 members from each of the four traditional tribes. This council prepared matters for discussion in the Assembly.
4. Ekklesia (Assembly): Solon expanded the powers of the Ekklesia, the Athenian Assembly of all citizens, giving them the right to vote on laws, elect magistrates, and make important decisions concerning the state.
5. Economic Reforms: Solon introduced economic measures such as debt relief and land redistribution, easing financial burdens on citizens.
Cleisthenes' Reforms (508 BCE):
1. Creation of Tribes: Cleisthenes reorganized the Athenian citizenry into ten new tribes, each further divided into three trittyes (geographic divisions). This replaced the old tribal structure based on kinship and aimed to promote unity among citizens.
2. Council of 500 (Boule): Cleisthenes established the Council of 500, also known as the Boule, as the primary governing body of Athens. Comprising 50 representatives from each of the ten tribes, this council oversaw administration, prepared legislation, and directed government activities.
3. Ostracism: Cleisthenes introduced ostracism, a process by which citizens could vote to temporarily exile individuals deemed too powerful or a threat to democracy. Ostracism was meant to prevent tyranny and preserve political balance.
4. Democratic Institutions: Cleisthenes further democratized the government by expanding political participation and ensuring citizens' rights, such as freedom of speech and assembly, were protected.
5. Demes: The new territorial units, known as demes, became the basis for local administration and fostered a sense of community among citizens.
Together, Solon's and Cleisthenes' reforms dramatically changed the Athenian government, making it more democratic and allowing broader citizen participation in decision-making processes. These reforms laid the foundation for the subsequent flourishing of democracy in ancient Athens.