Editing Chiefdom (section)

===Simple category===
Chiefdoms are characterized by the centralization of authority and pervasive inequality. At least two inherited [[social class]]es ([[elite]] and [[commoner]]) are present. (The [[Ancient Hawaii#Caste system|ancient Hawaiian chiefdoms]] had as many as four social classes.) An individual might change social class during a lifetime by extraordinary behavior.  A single lineage/family of the elite class becomes the ruling elite of the chiefdom, with the greatest influence, power, and prestige.  [[Kinship]] is typically an organizing principle, while marriage, age, and sex can affect one's social status and role.

A single simple chiefdom is generally composed of a central community surrounded by or near a number of smaller subsidiary communities.  All of the communities recognize the authority of a single kin group or individual with hereditary centralized power, dwelling in the primary community.  Each community will have its own leaders, which are usually in a [[tribute|tributary]] and/or subservient relationship to the ruling elite of the primary community.