Final answer:
Most Greek city-states were ruled by tyrants before transitioning to democracies, with the term 'tyrant' originally indicating a ruler without legal right but with popular support, who often managed to stabilize governance and address social issues. Significant democratic reforms were later introduced by leaders such as Cleisthenes in Athens.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before many Greek city-states became democracies, most had strong rulers known as tyrants. In the context of ancient Greece, the term 'tyrant' was used to describe a ruler who had seized power without legal right but was supported by the populace. Contrary to modern connotations, these rulers were not necessarily oppressive or unjust; many tyrants were successful in resolving conflicts and brought stability during tumultuous times. An example of such leadership transition is seen in the rise of Cleisthenes in Athens, who implemented reforms that expanded democratic participation to all male citizens, thereby establishing Athens as one of the first real democracies in history around 508 BCE. Nevertheless, before reaching this level of democratic governance, cities like Athens underwent various forms of oligarchical rule, aristocracy, and at times, these positions of power were held by the traditional elite classes, the aristocrats.