- Head of State and Governance: The head of state was the Emperor (Negusa Nagast), who held significant powers, including being considered a direct descendant of King Solomon and Queen Sheba, an Elect of God, and King of Kings. The Emperor had absolute power over subjects. Succession was often based on a system of primogeniture or appointment by the reigning Emperor. New laws were generally created through decrees issued by the Emperor.
- Social Division: Society was divided into various social classes, with the Emperor at the top, followed by nobles, officials, clergy, and commoners. The hierarchical structure was also influenced by regional and religious affiliations.
- Polygyny: Marrying more than one wife was practiced by nobles and the Emperor, often for political alliances and to consolidate power.
- Lineage: The society was primarily patrilineal, with lineage and ancestry tracing through the male line.
- Religious Beliefs: The main religious beliefs were rooted in Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. The role of ancestors was significant, and religious leaders, including high priests, played a central role in spiritual matters. An ethical system was based on religious teachings. Conversion efforts were not widespread.
- Rite of Passage: The transition from childhood to adulthood was marked by religious ceremonies and education within the church.
- Code of Conduct: The Ethiopian Orthodox Church provided a moral framework for society, emphasizing virtues, ethical behavior, and adherence to religious teachings.
- Oral Tradition: Oral tradition was vital for transmitting history, cultural values, and religious teachings.
- Taxation and Governance: Taxation was collected through local and regional administrators. Client states and alliances sometimes contributed resources to the central government.
- Justice System: The justice system often involved traditional practices and ecclesiastical courts, where religious leaders played a role in dispensing justice.
- Education System: Education was closely tied to religious institutions, with monasteries and churches serving as centers of learning.
- Healthcare System: Healthcare was provided through traditional herbal remedies and practices, often intertwined with religious beliefs.
- Art and Craft: The dynasty supported various artistic and craft industries, including religious art, manuscripts, textiles, and architecture.
- Diplomacy: Diplomacy involved alliances, treaties, and embassies with neighboring kingdoms and foreign powers.
- Military System: The military was organized around the Emperor's authority and comprised professional soldiers and conscripted forces. Defensive and expansionist strategies were employed over time.
- Land Tenure: Land ownership was often tied to nobility and the church, with public and private ownership.
- Food Production: Agriculture was the primary source of food production, supplemented by pastoralism, fishing, and hunting and gathering in different regions.
- Medical System: Medical practices were rooted in traditional herbal remedies and spiritual beliefs.
- Music Industry: Music was an integral part of religious and cultural ceremonies, often accompanied by traditional instruments.
- Performing Arts: Performing arts were intertwined with religious rituals, storytelling, and cultural celebrations.
- Record-Keeping: Record-keeping was often done through manuscripts and written texts in Ge'ez script.
- DNA Testing: DNA testing has been performed on modern populations, revealing insights into genetic ancestry and historical migration patterns.
- Linguistic Analysis: Linguistic analysis of modern populations has provided insights into language evolution and cultural connections.
- Excavations: Archaeological excavations have uncovered artifacts, structures, and tombs, shedding light on historical practices and societal structures.
Also please do your own research. Tell me if you think I missed anything.
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