Lycurgus's Reforms

Ancient Greece during the vast time period of about 1500 to 300 B.C. was quite diverse and very different in comparison to countries of modern day. The major difference was the aspect of no central government as there were numerous separate states, known as city-states that were within the countries boundaries. All the city-states operated separately and with their own government, rules, and regulations. Therefore, competitions between city-states began as the desire to be the strongest and most respected state was prominent. For these states to reach their goals, a leader needed to come forward and guide the people effectively. A prominent man known as Solon chose to take leadership in the city-state of Athens in 594 BCE in an attempt to successfully lead his citizens by introducing his own reforms (Lewis 2009, 123). Another leader known as Lycurgus stepped forward to control the citizens of Sparta during the ninth century. The comparison of these two men is presented because they had similar ambitions as well as setbacks and obstacles, but chose to lead as governments in very different manners. Although both men strived to be great leaders, Solon’s reforms in Athens were significantly stronger and more successful. Even though many believe Solon’s reforms were more beneficial to the city-state, some question his choices as government and have the opinion that Lycurgus was a better leader. One major claim

Solon came into government basically starting from nothing and developed a well functioning society with citizens that were happy, appreciative, and unrestrained. Solon valued his people and ran government inclusively, compared to Lycurgus who expected his people to sacrifice their freedom for his controlling of the state. Solon’s reforms were more successful and he will continue to be known as a great lawmaker and an intelligent