Solon was an Athenian statesman who is credited with laying the foundation for Athenian democracy. He was appointed archon, the highest political office in Athens, in 594 BC. Solon's reforms focused on addressing the political, economic, and social issues that were plaguing Athens. He canceled all debts and freed those who had been enslaved due to debt. He also reorganized the classes of society based on wealth, which helped to give more people a say in government. Additionally, he introduced the concept of a jury system in which citizens could serve on a court to judge legal cases.
Cleisthenes was another Athenian statesman who is credited with further developing Athenian democracy. He came to power around 508 BC and introduced several reforms that strengthened the democratic nature of Athenian government. Cleisthenes created a new council of 500 citizens who were chosen by lot from all the citizens of Athens. This council had the power to prepare laws and oversee the work of other government officials. He also reorganized the tribes and demes (local districts) of Athens to prevent any one group from gaining too much power.
Both Solon and Cleisthenes played significant roles in reforming Greek culture and government, and their contributions helped to shape the foundations of democracy that are still in place today.