4.3 Comparing Ancient Empires

Meritocracy

a system in which people attain power, influence, and wealth because of their intellectual abilities rather than because of their class status or family lineage

Bureaucracy

a system of government in which most of the important decisions are made by state officials rather than by elected representatives.

Cosmopolitan

a city or society that brings together people from different cultures and backgrounds.

Urban

of or pertaining to a city

Province

a territorial unit within a larger state, often with its own local government, that helps manage regional affairs.

Hierarchy

a system in which people or groups are ranked one above the other according to status or authority.

Republic

a form of government in which officials are accountable to the public and must govern according to existing constitutional law.

Tribute

a payment made by one ruler or state to another as a sign of submission or for protection.