Reforms of Cleisthenes

Cleisthenes, an Athenian leader in the late 6th century BCE, is often called the "Father of Democracy" due to his significant reforms. He reorganized the political structure of Athens to reduce the power of aristocratic families and empower ordinary citizens. Cleisthenes established the principle of *isonomia*, or equality before the law, and created a new system of local governance through demes (neighborhoods), which allowed for broader participation in politics. His reforms led to the establishment of the Council of Five Hundred, enhancing democratic processes and laying the groundwork for participatory governance in Athens.