Module 7: Early Cities and Power Differentiation

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts related to early cities, their structure, and social inequalities.

Agrarian Civilizations

Large societies based on agriculture that emerged around 6,000 years ago.

Power Differentiation

The varying levels of power and influence held by different social classes within a society.

Cahokia

A Mississipian city that was the largest native city north of Mexico during its peak from 900-1300 CE.

Inequality engine

The concept that cities and urban civilizations contribute to social inequality through resource surplus and power gradients.

Classes in Arzhan Tomb

Identified social classes that included Power Specialists and Slaves, indicating a hierarchy based on wealth and influence.

Monumental Architecture

Large structures built in ancient cities to signify power and importance, such as the Ziggurat of Ur.

Gender Inequalities

Disparities in power and roles based on gender within early civilizations.

The Elite

The highest social class in Cahokia, consisting of sub-chiefs and priests.

The Great Sun

The chief leader in the social hierarchy of Cahokia.

Ziggurat of Ur

A massive temple structure that symbolizes the religious and political power in Sumerian cities.