Pisistratus

Pisistratus , 605?-527 BC, Greek statesman, tyrant of Athens. His power was founded on the cohesion of the rural citizens, whom he consolidated with farseeing land laws. His coup (c.560 BC) was probably not unpopular. His rivals, the Alcmaeonidae and the aristocracy, managed to exile him twice, but in his last years he established himself sufficiently to leave Athens in the hands of his sons, Hippias and Hipparchus . He first won Salamis for Athens and established Attic hegemony in the Dardanelles. He did much to enhance Athenian cultural prestige, held great festivals like the Panathenaea, and beautified the city. His building efforts included fountains and temples, such as the great temple of Zeus at Athens. He had an official text of Homer written down. His name also appears as Peisistratus.

Pisistratus (or Peisistratus) (c.600–c.527 BC) Tyrant of Athens. He seized power in 561 and after twice being expelled ruled continuously from 546 until his death. As ruler he reduced aristocratic power in rural Attica and promoted the financial prosperity and cultural pre-eminence of Athens.

Pisistratus (c.605–527 bc) Athenian ruler. He became leader of the popular party in Athens. He seized control by force in 560 bc, but was overthrown in 554 bc, and driven into exile. With support from Thebes and Argos, he regained power in 541 bc, and ruled as ‘tyrant’ until his death.