<Li> Paralioi: the population living along the coast, led by Megacles, an Alcmaeonid, the Paralioi party was not as strong as the Pedieis, primarily because they could not produce grain, as did the plainsmen . With the Megarans patrolling the sea, much of Athens' import / export power was limited . </Li> <Li> Hyperakrioi: not previously represented by formal party, dwelled primarily in the hills and were by far the poorest of the Athenian population . Their only production was barter in items like honey and wool . Peisistratos organised them into the Hyperakrioi, or hill dwellers . This party grossly outnumbered the other two parties combined . </Li> <P> His role in the Megaran conflict gained Peisistratos popularity in Athens, but he did not have the political clout to seize power . Herodotus tells us how he intentionally wounded himself and his mules in order to demand from the Athenian people bodyguards for protection, which he received . By obtaining support from the vast number of the poorer population as well as bodyguards, he was able to seize the Acropolis and the reins of government . The Athenians were open to a tyranny similar to that under Solon--and possible stability and internal peace--and Peisistratos' ruse won him further prominence . With this in his possession, and the collusion of Megacles and his party, he declared himself tyrant . </P> <P> Peisistratos was ousted from political office and exiled twice during his reign . The first occurrence was circa 555 BC after the two original parties, normally at odds with each other, joined forces and removed Peisistratos from power . Actual dates after this point become unclear . Peisistratos was exiled for 3 to 6 years during which the agreement between the Pedieis and the Paralioi fell apart . Peisistratos returned to Athens and rode into the city in a golden chariot accompanied by a tall woman appearing to be Athena . Many returned to his side, believing he had the favour of the goddess . Differing sources state that he held the tyranny for one to six years before he was exiled again . During his second exile, he gathered support from local cities and resources from the Laurion silver mines near Athens . After 10 years he returned in force, regained his tyranny, and held power until his death in 527 BC . </P>

Leader who seized power like in ancient athens