Aristogeiton
Quick Summary
Harmodius and Aristogeiton were celebrated as the tyrannoktonoi, or "tyrannicides," who legend claimed freed Athens from the Peisistratid tyrants. However, historical accounts suggest their plot was motivated by personal resentment rather than a desire for liberation.1
In 514 BCE, Aristogeiton, fueled by anger over a slight from the tyrant Hippias's brother, Hipparchus, conspired with his friend Harmodius. They planned to assassinate both Hippias and Hipparchus during a festival procession. While they succeeded in killing Hipparchus, Harmodius was immediately killed, and Aristogeiton was captured and tortured to death. Hippias's rule then became more oppressive and lasted for another four years.1
"Tyrannicide" refers to the act of killing a tyrant or the person who commits such an act. The original statues of Harmodius and Aristogeiton were created around 510 BCE, but were later lost. Copies of these statues were made and placed in Athens.23
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
