2. Period of archons for life, taken from the family of Codrus, thirteen of whom ruled; 1068-752. The first was Medon, the last, Alcmaeon. These archons succeeded, like the kings, by inheritance, but were accountable for their administration, ([Greek: hypeuthynoi].)--At the commencement of this period occur the migrations of the Ionians from Attica to Asia Minor, 1044. See below. 3. Period of the decennial archons, seven of whom succeeded between 752-682. These likewise were taken from the family of Codrus. This period is devoid of any remarkable occurrences. 4. Period extending to Solon, 682-594. that of nine archons yearly chosen, but so arranged that the prerogatives of the former kings, and the preceding archons, were divided among the three first of the nine. With respect to this, as well as to the other changes above mentioned, we know little of the causes which produced them, or of the manner in which they were brought about. Rise of an oppressive aristocracy, (like that of the patricians at Rome, immediately after the expulsion of the kings,) both the archons and the members of the areopagus being elected only from noble families. First attempt at legislation by Draco, 622, which appears only to have consisted in a criminal code, rendered unavailing by its severity.--The insurrection of Cylon, 598, in consequence of the manner in which it was quelled, turned out most injurious to the aristocratical party, inasmuch as the nobles drew upon themselves the pollution of blood, which, even after the purification of Epimenides, 593, was long used as a pretext for commotion. The political factions of the Pediaei, of the Diacrii, and of the Parhali, produced an anarchy at Athens, during which the neighbouring Megarians took possession of the island of Salamis; a conquest which, however, was subsequently wrested from them by Solon. 14. From this state of anarchy Athens was rescued by Solon; a man to whom not only Athens, but the whole human race, are deeply indebted. He was chosen archon, and at the same time commissioned to remodel the constitution of Athens: and the successful manner in which he executed this task, laid the foundation of the happiness of his native country.