Rhodes during Early Iron Age

Centralized Powers

Decline of palatial structures on Mycenaean mainlands—> lack of centralized power.

Fragmentation of power and population became more dispersed with smaller settlements.

Rise of independent communities

Kamiros, Lindos, and Ialysos

Rise of independent govs with their own leaders.

Social and economic activities organized at a much more local level.

Kinship lines

In the absence of centralized power, local governance was likely organized around kin groups, with leadership often falling to the heads of prominent families or clans.

clustervilles

no nucleation of settlements, this structure allowed for the rise of independent communities that developed individual social and economic practices, fostering local governance and distinct community identities.

Burial as a form of social status

grave goods reflect the social status of the individual.

warrior tomb

elaborate structures associated with individuals of higher social standing, often belonging to the elite warrior class. included weapons. Banquet and feasting supplies were in the tombs signaling that warriors were celebrated.

“Rich Lady” Tombs

Female burials featuring pottery, jewelry, and luxury items.

Reflecting their status and wealth.

Highlights the woman’s role in managing households/displaying family wealth thru material culture.

Who recieved formal burials?

selection based on higher social status and age group, not on gender

agia agathe necropolis

An archaeological site in Rhodes, Greece, known for its burial practices and artifacts related to ancient burial customs, often reflecting social status and community organization during the period.

Artifacts uncovered at the site include pottery, jewelry, and other luxury items that provide insights into the cultural and economic interactions of the time, as well as the significance of rituals associated with death and the afterlife.

is associated with a newly established settlement, likely formed during the transition between the Late Bronze and Early Iron Ages.

This reflects a broader trend in the post-Mycenaean world, where populations shifted and reorganized into smaller, decentralized communities.

Rich Lady tombs Maritime Trade

The burial included luxury goods from Cyprus, which demonstrates that Rhodes was not isolated but actively engaged in maritime trade routes connecting the Aegean, Cyprus, and the Near East.

oikos

basic unit of social and economic organization, typically encompassing a household and its resources. It included not only the physical dwelling but also the extended family, servants, and the production of goods, reflecting the social structure and community life during this period.

Warrior Role

Warriors were the elites: took $ to have the armor.

Warriors represented protection, leadership, and the ability to secure resources through raids, defense, or control of trade routes.

Who took the power in fragmetized settlements

After the collapse of Mycenaean palatial systems, Rhodes entered a period of decentralized political structures. Local leaders, often warrior-chiefs, likely emerged to fill the power.

Could demonstrate prowess and leadership, therefore leader.

Also controlled resources

Warrior role and maritime trade

As Rhodes was situated at a strategic maritime crossroads, warriors likely played a role in securing and controlling trade routes. This role would have been critical in maintaining economic power and fostering alliances.

Short distance trade in Rhodes

SMALLER SCALE TRADE, NOT COLLAPSED. Instead, it shifted to accommodate new socio-political realities. Evidence of locally produced ceramics and tools exchanged within Rhodes