Solon
Athenian wiseman, law-giver, lifelong learner, and citizen.
Solon, a well-known lawmaker and great advocate for the common man, died after a long battle against those pursuing selfish ambition and worldly conquest. He was 80.
Solon was born and raised in the town of Charity in the county of Kindness. His family was known for being givers, not takers. He attended the Academy of the World and pursued degrees in Learning and Experience. A degree was never bestowed, and he continued attending classes for the whole of his life.
In the 6th century B.C., as Athenian commitment to the difficult war waged to secure the Isle of Salamis waned, Solon devised a clever scheme to thwart this “disgraceful” idea of quitting. His crafty delivery of his elegiac poem called “Salamis” turned the tide of opinion and the war effort was renewed with Solon in charge. Under his cunning leadership, Athens gained the victory and Salamis. Later Solon was instrumental in overcoming the Cylonian sedition as well.
As the day to day operation of Athens became mired in quarreling between the Hill quarter, the Plainsmen, and the Sea Siders as to what sort of government should be formed, the wisest heads pressed Solon into taking up state affairs.
“Take the mid seat, and be the vessels guide; Many in Athens are on your side,” counseled an oracle from Apollo at the time.
Solon refused to be subservient the powerful men who asked for his help. Instead, concerned that the poor were being taken advantage of, he first set out to settle the injustice of debt practices. His plan for discharging debts proved sensible for debtors and creditor alike and his fame and popularity grew until he was given power over all agencies of the Athenian government.
Solon quickly got to work repealing Draco’s laws. Next he evened out the power of the magistrates by creating a jury system that gave a voice to the common people. Many other just laws were written to bring equality to all areas of public and private Athenian life. These were to be in place for 100 years.
In retirement Solon chose to travel, spending his time in studying, writing, and relocating cities. He ticked off such notables as Croesus and enjoyed the company of Aesop who because of the latter, advised him to “Let your converse with kings be either short or seasonable.”
Eventually he returned to Athens and became a consultant and popular speaker. He continued to speak against the perils of pursuing personal wealth and preeminence, the need for diligent watch over hard won liberty, and the dangers of television.
Solon was a member of the First Temple of Juno where a memorial service was held. His ashes were scattered about the Isle of Salamis.