Describe some of the political, military, economic, or social strategies that leaders of the ancient world used to strengthen their empires and consolidate their control?  Explain, using examples from AT LEAST TWO of the following regions:  the ancient Middle East, Egypt, India, or China.

 

Answer:

Two Regions chosen: Ancient Egypt and Ancient China

Ancient Egypt and Ancient China are considered two of the most known oldest civilization in the world. Today, these two countries are rich with archeological artifacts from their great empires that brought several influences to the whole world. In line with this, the ancient leaders of this two countries were known for their great knowledge in using political, military, economic, and social strategies which gave strength to their empires during their times. Ancient Egypt called their political leaders as pharaohs, while ancient China had emperors and queens. These leaders have both used their influence, power, and leadership skills in building relationships among allies and people. These leaders have also exhibited their skills and strategies in leading their soldiers in war and conquests. Although the dating of the earliest Chinese dynasties is much less certain than the Egyptian ones. The periods of political instability in ancient China between 3000 - 500 B. C. obviously coincide with the ones in Egypt (Páleš and Mikulecký, 2008). One the other hand, trade industry have also helped in boosting ancient Egypt and ancient China's economy. Aside from bringing economic powers, scholars also believe that trade and industry have also brought military powers that helped these two civilizations to spread and conquer larger territories. Aside from this, social strategies are reflected to the earlier accounts of their own writing systems and distinct languages. Both civilizations have also practiced religions, being ancestral worship for China and worship centered around the divinity of their ruler for Egypt. Aside from writing and religion, medicine has been practiced also signifying their rich civilization, that may or may not have contributed to their social strategies in sustaining their civilization's power and influence throughout the years to come. 

References:

1. Páleš, E., & Mikulecký Sr, M. (2008). 500-year periodicity of political instability in the history of ancient Egypt and China. Androgens at work?. Neuroendocrinology Letters, 29(4).