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 Overview
Evidence of Rulers
Several clues left behind by past cultures tell archaeologists when rulers and governments have taken control, transforming societies into states:
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A hierarchical settlement pattern, revealed by the existence of larger cities with outlying towns and villages, indicates regulation by a complex administrative organization.
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Social stratification, demonstrated by the existence of elite residences, rich burials, and more valuables, indicates the emergence of a rigid class structure.
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Craft specialization, evidenced by classes of citizens involved in the production of goods rather than food, indicates governmental control over many parts of the economy.
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Centralized religion, manifested in the construction of large temples and the depiction of ruler-controlled rituals, indicates the emergence of "state religions."
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Military might, expressed in artistic depictions, defensive fortifications, sophisticated weaponry, brutalized skeletal remains, and sometimes even written records, indicates state control over surrounding territories. |
While most of the Americas during this same time were still occupied by other kinds of societies, including settled villagers and hunter-gatherers, several societies provided evidence that they now had rulers and complex governments in place.
Continue to Societies and Settlements. >>
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