Political Organization. Bands,Tribes & Chiefdoms PDF

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Political Organization Bands, Tribes & Chiefdoms Bands A band is usually a very small, oftentimes nomadic, group that is connected by family ties and is politically independent. Bands are essentially acephalous societies. Bands are usually referred to as being egalitarian societies, societies in which all persons of the same age and gender are seen as equals. Informal leadership is accorded to members who possess certain skills and knowledge such as the gift of memory, hunting or healing skills, or those other special ability. An informal leader does not possess power, and could not compel others and can only give advice. Decision making is often done by consensus. Tribes A tribe is a combination of smaller kin or non-kin groups, linked by a common culture, that usually act as one. A tribe is still considered an acephalous political system, even if it is more complex than band. The manner by which tribes are organized is through the presence of pan tribal associations, or what anthropologists refer to as “sodalities”. These are groups that cut across the society by bringing together a limited number of people, typically at least one from each family. Pan tribal associations often are in the form of councils, groups of elder men or women who are members of the same age set warrior societies, religious cults, or secret societies. While these groups have specific purposes, they also serve to create order and a sense of unity for a tribe. Chiefdoms A political unit headed by a chief, who holds power over more than community group. The social structure in chiefdoms is hierarchical.

Chiefdoms can either be simple or complex. Simple chiefdom- central village ruled by a single family. A number of smaller communities surround this smaller community, with each being headed by a subsidiary leader subservient to the central ruler. Complex chiefdom- several simple chiefdoms ruled by a single paramount chief residing in a single paramount center. Highly structured and hierarchical political system with a class system where the elites demand tribute from the commoner (tributary system)....