W.G. Forrest's classic little book is the best account of the political evolution of ancient Greece for general readers & for introductory classes in Greek History. Forrest writes beautifully, if informally, treats evidence fairly & makes complex issues seem clear. The book isn't only well written but also well illustrated. He succinctly treats Homeric Society, Colonization, the Hoplite Reform, the origins of Greek tyranny, the Spartan Revolution, Solon's reforms in Athens, Pisistratus' regime, Cleisthenes' creation of early democracy & mature Athenian democracy. He always shows the interrelationship of political, social & economic factors driving developments in Greek History. His general picture is as valid today as when he wrote it in the mid-sixties.