The Athenian lawgiver DRACO is best known for his harsh legal code, which was written in 621 BCE. His laws were so severe that the phrase 'DRACONIAN' is still used today to describe overly strict laws. The other Athenian lawgiver, SOLON, was active in the late 6th century BCE and is credited with laying the foundations of Athenian democracy. He is remembered for his reforms, which included the cancellation of debts and the establishment of a new constitution.