Yet, even in states which did not maintain a cavalry (as Athens previous to the constitution of Solon), an oligarchy was the first form of government that rose above the ruins of monarchy.
[156] One principal method of increasing the popular action was by incorporating the neighbouring villages or wards in one municipality with the capital.

By this the people gained both in number and in union.
[157] Sometimes in ancient Greece there arose a species of lawful tyrants, under the name of Aesymnetes.

These were voluntarily chosen by the people, sometimes for life, sometimes for a limited period, and generally for the accomplishment of some particular object.

Thus was Pittacus of Mitylene elected to conduct the war against the exiles.
With the accomplishment of the object he abdicated his power.

But the appointment of Aesymnetes can hardly be called a regular form of government.