Ephialtes of Athens vs Huo Guang

Ephialtes led a reform that stripped the Areopagus of most of its political powers, including the right to veto laws and supervise magistrates. These powers were transferred to the Boule, the Assembly, and the popular courts. This reform completed the radicalization of Athenian democracy.

Ephialtes helped negotiate an alliance between Athens and Argos, a traditional enemy of Sparta. This alliance strengthened Athens' position in the Peloponnese and contributed to the growing tension that led to the First Peloponnesian War.

Ephialtes was assassinated by an unknown assailant, likely an oligarchic opponent. His death removed the leading radical democrat from the scene, but his reforms remained in place. Pericles then emerged as the leading democratic politician in Athens.

Huo Guang was appointed regent for the young Emperor Zhao of Han after Emperor Wu's death. He effectively ruled the Han dynasty for over a decade, maintaining stability and continuing Wu's policies of centralization and expansion.

After Emperor Zhao's death, Huo Guang deposed the incompetent Emperor Liu He after only 27 days on the throne. He cited Liu He's debauchery and misrule as reasons. Huo Guang then installed Liu Xun as Emperor Xuan, ensuring competent leadership.

Huo Guang's family and allies held key positions in the Han court. His wife poisoned Empress Xu to place her own daughter as empress. After Huo Guang's death, Emperor Xuan purged the Huo clan, executing thousands and ending their influence.

Huo Guang died in 68 BC and was given a grand state funeral. However, within two years, Emperor Xuan ordered the execution of Huo Guang's family and stripped him of posthumous honors, accusing the Huo clan of treason and corruption.