Final answer:
Solon left Athens after announcing his reforms to avoid conflict and controversy, ensuring that his laws were followed independently of his personal influence.
Step-by-step explanation:
After announcing his reforms in Athens, Solon decided to leave Athens to avoid conflict and controversy. He wanted to ensure that his laws would stand the test of time without his personal involvement influencing their application or amendment. Solon believed that for the Athenians to truly accept and abide by his reforms, they would need to do so without his presence, thereby preventing any modifications to the laws based upon his personal authority. According to historical accounts, he left for ten years. This move exemplified his innovation of an impersonal state where the law continued as an institution independent of the current ruler's whims. Thus, the answer to why Solon said he left Athens after announcing his reforms is B) To avoid conflict and controversy.