Establishment of Athenian Oligarchy in Coup

Following the defeat in the Sicilian campaign, a faction of Athenian citizens sought to address what they perceived as the failures of radical democracy. This group believed that the democratic system was leading Athens towards ruin and instability. Their initial attempts to reform the political structure were conducted through constitutional means, but these efforts ultimately led to a more drastic measure: the establishment of an oligarchy known as the Council of 400. This coup marked a significant shift in Athenian governance, as power was concentrated in the hands of a select few rather than being distributed among the broader citizenry. The Council of 400 aimed to restore order and control, reflecting the sentiments of those who felt disenfranchised by the existing democratic processes. However, this oligarchic regime was short-lived, lasting only four months before a return to a more democratic government was initiated. The brief period of oligarchy highlighted the tensions within Athenian society regarding governance and the balance between democracy and oligarchy, ultimately influencing the political landscape of Athens in the subsequent years.