411 BC facts for kids
| Millennium: | 1st millennium BC |
|---|---|
| Centuries: | 6th century BC – 5th century BC – 4th century BC |
| Decades: | 440s BC 430s BC 420s BC – 410s BC – 400s BC 390s BC 380s BC |
| Years: | 414 BC 413 BC 412 BC – 411 BC – 410 BC 409 BC 408 BC |
Year 411 BC was a time long ago, over 2,400 years in the past. It was a year when important things happened, especially in ancient Greece, a powerful civilization known for its thinkers, artists, and warriors. This year saw big changes in the city-state of Athens, a center of democracy.
Key Events of 411 BC
Political Changes in Athens
Overthrow of Democracy
In 411 BC, the way Athens was governed changed suddenly. The system of democracy, where citizens voted on laws and leaders, was overthrown. This was a big deal because Athens was famous for being a democracy.
The Council of Four Hundred
After the democracy was removed, a new group called the "Council of Four Hundred" took control. This was a type of government called an oligarchy, where only a small group of powerful people ruled, instead of all citizens.
Return to Traditional Government
The new rule by the Council of Four Hundred did not last long. One of the leaders of this group, named Phrynichus, was killed. Soon after, the traditional democratic way of governing Athens was brought back. This showed that many people in Athens still wanted their democracy.
Thrasybulus and Alcibiades
During this time, the Athenian navy, which was their powerful fleet of ships, played a role in politics. A general named Thrasybulus was a leader in the navy. He helped bring back a famous Athenian general and politician named Alcibiades. Alcibiades had been away in a place called Sardis, but he was called back to help Athens.
Arts and Culture
Famous Plays Performed
Euripides' Iphigeneia in Tauris
In 411 BC, the famous Greek writer Euripides had one of his plays performed. It was called Iphigeneia in Tauris. Euripides was known for writing tragedies, which are serious plays about human suffering.
Aristophanes' Comedies
Another well-known Greek playwright, Aristophanes, also had two of his plays performed this year. These were Lysistrata and Women Celebrating the Thesmophoria. Aristophanes was famous for writing comedies, which are funny plays that often made fun of politics and society.
Notable People
Births in 411 BC
- Timoleon: A Greek statesman and general was born around this time. He later became an important figure in the history of Sicily.
Deaths in 411 BC
- Antiphon: An Athenian politician and a skilled speaker (orator) passed away this year.
- Phrynicus: An Athenian general who was involved in the political changes in Athens was assassinated.
