Solon, one of the 7 sages of ancient Greece, is often credited with creating democracy in Athens. Michael A. Soupios, a political philosophy professor from Long Island University, calls Solon the West's first statesman, according to Hellenic News of America. Soupios then refers to the lack to hard data we have on this famous law-giver and poet and explains Solon's contribution to stability in Athens, with a focus on economics.
Solon came to power when Athens was on the brink of civil war. After dealing with the immediate crises, Solon redefined citizenship so as to create the foundations of democracy. Before Solon, the eupatridai (nobles) had a monopoly on the government by virtue of their birth. Solon replaced the hereditary aristocracy with one based on wealth.

• Solon
• Solon's Constitution

Solon Picture © Clipart.com