Let's get more specific about the differences between city-states and empires. Use the chart below to compare characteristics of the two types of civilizations. Then, as you work through the rest of this lesson, refer back to the chart as you decide when each civilization moved from a city-state to an empire.
Question
Why do you think political shifts (changes in leadership) occurred as empires conquered other states?
As territories and populations increased, so did the bureaucracy, military defense, and resources needed to control an entire empire. If one ruler or one method of governing was not effective at maintaining order, rival leaders or groups would seize power, which sometimes resulted in larger political changes, such as changes in the form of government.
As you continue with this lesson, you will explore some of the earliest empires, those that came to power Before
the Common Era (BCE). Click on the Activity button and use the Building Empires worksheet to collect information about
these empires, based on the characteristics in the table shown on this page.
If you find that some information is missing, feel free to do a quick search of the Internet for more information. As you fill in your worksheet, identify similarities and differences among the empires. Use the “notes” section at the bottom of the worksheet to write down any additional ideas you have about empires.
If you find that some information is missing, feel free to do a quick search of the Internet for more information. As you fill in your worksheet, identify similarities and differences among the empires. Use the “notes” section at the bottom of the worksheet to write down any additional ideas you have about empires.
