5. The Transformation of Athens Into a Direct Democracy
Ephialtes stripped the Areopagus of nearly all its powers, transferring them to more democratic bodies whose membership was drawn by lot, such as the boule, a city council appointed to run daily affairs, and the Heliaea, Athens’ supreme court. The Areopagus’ jurisdiction was narrowed to murder and arson cases. Ephialtes also reduced property qualifications for officials, and introduced pay for the holders of public office. That enabled poorer citizens to hold offices that previously had effectively been the preserve of the wealthy and those with enough means to support themselves while holding office, without needing to work and earn a living. Ephialtes’ reforms were strongly resented by the oligarchic faction, who had him assassinated in 461 BC. His deputy, Pericles, took the leadership reins, and completed Ephialtes’ agenda, finalizing the transformation of Athens into a direct democracy.
