By the late 7th century in Attica people are in need for the replacement of aristocratic rule by that of a single strong man, or tyrant.
Not only do the aristocratic families of Attica hold nearly all political power, they also own most of the land. Meanwhile, the free smallholders are falling increasingly into debt. If anyone’s land is mortgaged, a pillar is placed conspicuously upon it. The farmer must then pay a sixth of all his produce to his creditor. If he defaults on his payments he can be enslaved.

From about 630 BC there are attempts by would-be tyrants to seize power in Athens. But the first strong ruler emerges by due process of law. He proves himself a reformer with democratic sympathies.

Solon, elected archon in 594 BC, is given by the Areopagus the specific task of reconciling the opposing factions within Athenian society. His first legislation deals with the impoverished peasants. He boldly removes the pillars from their land (thereby writing off their debts), and at the same time makes it illegal for anyone to be enslaved by a creditor.

7th Century Athenian Coin