Megacles
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Megacles was an Athenian statesman who was active in the 6th century BCE. He was a prominent figure during a turbulent period in Athenian politics, characterized by factional struggles for control of the city. Megacles belonged to the powerful Alcmaeonid family, which had a history of political influence and also faced periods of banishment due to accusations of sacrilege.12
During his time, Athens was divided into political parties, with Megacles leading the "party of the Coast". These internal conflicts created an environment where leaders like Peisistratus could attempt to seize power. Megacles played a role in both supporting and opposing Peisistratus's rise to tyranny, demonstrating the shifting alliances of the era. The Alcmaeonids, despite their influence, were often embroiled in political disputes and faced exile, yet they continued to be a significant force in Athenian affairs.12
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- Alcmaeonid Family
…of one of its members, Megacles (632? bc), a certain Cylon failed in an attempt to make himself tyrant, and his followers were slain at an altar sanctuary. Accused of sacrilege and murder, the Alcmaeonids incurred the bloodguilt that was to be used against them in political struggles for more…
Read More…of one of its members, Megacles (632? bc), a certain Cylon failed in an attempt to make himself tyrant, and his followers were slain at an altar sanctuary. Accused of sacrilege and murder, the Alcmaeonids incurred the bloodguilt that was to be used against them in political struggles for more…
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Cleisthenes of Athens…by his great-grandfather, also named Megacles. The latter had been chief archon when the Athenian noble Cylon had made an unsuccessful bid to seize the Acropolis and make himself tyrant (c. 632). Some of Cylon’s followers had taken refuge at an altar and did not abandon their sanctuary until they…
Read More…by his great-grandfather, also named Megacles. The latter had been chief archon when the Athenian noble Cylon had made an unsuccessful bid to seize the Acropolis and make himself tyrant (c. 632). Some of Cylon’s followers had taken refuge at an altar and did not abandon their sanctuary until they…
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