Thirty Tyrants

The Thirty Tyrants were a group of oligarchic rulers who governed Athens briefly in 404-403 BCE after its defeat in the Peloponnesian War. They were appointed by Sparta and prioritized their own power, often suppressing democratic elements and executing opponents. Their rule was characterized by strict control and limited civil liberties. After a short time, they were overthrown, leading to the restoration of Athenian democracy. The period is significant as a cautionary example of tyranny and the dangers of concentrated power in a fragile political system.