When King Croesus looked into the condition of the two great Greek states, Athens and Sparta, he discovered very different situations. Athens was not strong or united at that time. Instead, the city was suffering from serious internal problems. It was ruled by Pisistratus, the son of Hippocrates, who held power as a tyrant. The people of Athens were divided, and political struggles weakened the state.
To understand how Pisistratus came to power, it is important to look at the story of his father, Hippocrates. While still a private citizen, Hippocrates once traveled to Olympia to watch the famous Olympic Games. During his visit, a strange and remarkable event took place The Uncertain Language of the Pelasgi.
A Mysterious Sign at Olympia
While Hippocrates was offering sacrifices to the gods, something unexpected happened. The cauldrons nearby, which were filled with water and meat from the sacrifices, suddenly began to boil. This happened without any fire being used. The water rose and overflowed from the pots, surprising everyone who saw it.
Chilon of Sparta, a respected and wise man, witnessed this event. He believed it was a sign from the gods. After seeing the boiling cauldrons, Chilon gave Hippocrates serious advice. He told him that if he was not yet married, he should never marry a woman who could give him children. If he already had a wife, he should send her away. If he already had a son, he should reject him. Chilon believed the sign warned of danger that would come through Hippocrates’ children.
Ignored Advice and Its Result
Hippocrates did not like this advice at all. He chose to ignore it completely. Some time later, he became the father of Pisistratus. As events would show, the warning given by Chilon would seem to come true in an unexpected way Local Ephesus Tour Guides.
Years later, Attica was divided by political conflict. Two powerful groups were struggling for control. One group represented the people of the coast and was led by Megacles, the son of Alcmaeon. The other group represented the people of the plain and was led by Lycurgus, a member of the Aristolaid family.
Pisistratus Creates a New Power Base
Pisistratus saw an opportunity in this conflict. He formed a third political group, claiming to represent the interests of the people from the highlands. He presented himself as their defender and gained their support. To gain power, he used a clever and deceptive plan.
Pisistratus injured himself and his mules on purpose. He then drove his chariot into the public marketplace. There, he claimed that his enemies had attacked him and tried to kill him while he was traveling in the countryside. He showed his wounds as proof and asked the people for protection.
Seizing Power in Athens
Pisistratus reminded the Athenians of his past military successes, especially his role in capturing the town of Nisaea from the Megarians. Many people believed his story. Moved by sympathy and admiration, they agreed to give him a personal guard.
This guard was made up of citizens who carried clubs instead of spears. Once Pisistratus had this armed force, he used it to take control of the citadel. In this way, he seized power and became the ruler of Athens.
Rule Under Pisistratus
After gaining control, Pisistratus did not destroy the existing system. He kept the old offices and laws in place. He ruled according to traditional customs. His government was stable, orderly, and beneficial to the city. Even though he ruled as a tyrant, his leadership brought a period of relative peace and wise administration to Athens.
