Despite the elite class already forming in the Late Bronze Age Europe, the society of that time can still be considered largely egalitarian, wearing similar attire and buried with little grave goods. Meanwhile, in the Early Iron Age, we can see even more hierarchical structure of communities with varying social positions, as seen in the quantity and quality of items found in graves of varying sizes and shapes.

The top class was occupied by noble heads - Hallstatt princes. These were village elders, fighters and military commanders. They held political power and controlled production and trade. Power passed on not necessarily within one dynasty, but depended on the combat prowess and prestige of the successor.

Among women, the highest position was held by priestesses, who led religious rituals, and the family of the prince. Otherwise, women took care of their family and household, weaving and made pottery. Their position was displayed by different jewelry of glass and bronze, both local and imported.

Most, if not all men were able to wield weapons, but proper warriors had a higher standing and always tried to maintain or improve their social position through combat and competition.

The last ranks were craftsmen and farmers, who were most numerous and were buried in modest graves.


Sources: docs.google.com/document/d/1mnK9tpEvz9UgeVWuUh8fPF…

I hope you learned something new in this video. If you want to see more history videos, feel free to like and subscribe... you know how YouTube works. 👍

Learn more about the history in the heart of Europe:    • History in the heart of Europe  

Edited with Vegas Pro Edit 19

#history #europe #ironage #archeology #ancienthistory #shorts