Phormion

Phormion was the slave of the wealthy Athenian banker Pasion employed in his bank. Thanks to his business skills and reliability, he was granted the status of a freedman. As Pasion became too old and blind for conducting the business affairs on the relation Peiraieus to Athens, Phormion gained more powers and business experience in running a business. After Pasion's death and in accordance with his will, Phormion married his widow with a dowry of 12,000 drachmai and a house worth 10,000 drachmai taking care for his two sons and managing the banking business. It is known that he also expanded his business affairs in maritime ventures, since he appeared as an owner of several ships. Like his ex-master Pasion, Phormion also got social recognition and was rewarded with Athenian citizenship passing the path from humble slave to reputable citizen and businessman.