CASE / -411–-411
Athens’ Four Hundred and Five Thousand, 411 BCE
A bounded constitutional episode during the Peloponnesian War.
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Scope, selection, freshness, and background links
Athenian constitutional change, 411 BCE -411–-411
Institutions and reported coercive practices during the 411 BCE episode.
Formal design
observation
The proposed constitution entrusted government to at least five thousand Athenians judged most able to serve with person and property.
Rules in use
observation
The Athenian Constitution reports that the Five Thousand were initially only nominally selected while the Four Hundred occupied the council house and administered government.
observation
Thucydides reports that conspirators used assassinations and fear while the identities and numbers behind the movement remained uncertain to other citizens.
Interactions
Observed outcomes
observation
The Athenian Constitution dates the rule of the Four Hundred to approximately four months in 411 BCE.
observation
Thucydides reports that the Athenians deposed the Four Hundred and transferred affairs to the Five Thousand, defined as those able to furnish their own arms.