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By the end of the sixth century a number of overlords were able to wield imperium over other kings by virtue of military superiority, political astuteness and luck. The most powerful of these must find a means to administer the increasing complexities of their domains while providing alternative career paths for an ever-expanding stable of rivals
... See moreMax Adams • The First Kingdom

Kings’ legitimacy was earned through a combination of sword-wielding leadership in war and noble bloodline – as the sons or grandsons of men who had been kings (or at least great lords) three or four generations in the past. In Ireland, that birthright was called rigdomna – eligibility to rule. In the absence of legitimacy, power was seized by main
... See moreMax Adams • The First Kingdom

Islamic rule under the early khalifas (caliphs) depended on tribal garrisons watching over the unreliable townsmen. It was not a lasting solution. Under urban conditions, tribal unity weakened. There was no aristocracy to apply a feudal remedy, and the problem of government was control of the towns. The answer was found in recruiting military
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