The Discovery of Ostraca
In the 1960s, archaeologists unearthed a remarkable find in Athens: 8,500 shards of pottery, known as ostraca, used as ballots for a unique purpose. Instead of electing leaders, Athenians used these to vote on exiling a fellow citizen for ten years.
A Negative Popularity Contest
From 487 to 416 B.C., ostracism allowed Athenians to banish individuals deemed threats to civic order without a trial. A minimum of 6,000 votes against a person was needed for exile. Prominent figures like Themistocles and Megakles were common targets.
Revealing Forgotten History
The ostraca, often inscribed with insults or accusations, offer insights into Athenian political life and rivalries. Some were mass-produced, pointing to possible tampering. Researchers even found ballots with sarcastic votes cast against famine itself.
The End of Ostracism
The practice ended in 416 B.C. after a final ostracism caused outrage. It served as both a safeguard against tyranny and a tool for political maneuvering.
In the 1960s, archaeologists unearthed a remarkable find in Athens: 8,500 shards of pottery, known as ostraca, used as ballots for a unique purpose. Instead of electing leaders, Athenians used these to vote on exiling a fellow citizen for ten years. pic.twitter.com/at5RAYDjAS
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