Existing comment:
The lifestyles of the ruler and elite upper class at Cahokia were supported by the work of leaders and commoners.
A highly specialized social, political, and religious hierarchy developed at Cahokia, established on the foundation of a stable food base. Control over surplus crops enabled a ruler and an elite class to wield considerably political and religious power.
Lower in the hierarchy, leaders and commoners produced the 25,000 to 30,000 pounds of corn a day necessary to feed the population of Cahokia. And the manufactured products and monumental building projects that represent Mississippian culture today are the results of their labor.
Great Sun:
The Great Son was the head of Cahokia's system of social control. Religion and government were consolidated in him by birthright. He and his family lived a life of privilege on Monks Mound, their needs provided for by others.
The Elite:
An elite class of priests and chieftains counselled the Great Sun in matters of religion and government. Elite membership was inherited. The elite lived a privileged existence inside the stockade walls or ruled satellite communities.
Leaders:
The day-to-day leaders of Cahokia were the headmen of clans and communities. Thought not of noble birth, leaders were revered and trusted. Under the direction of the elite, leaders designed and supervised public construction projects and farming activities.
Commoners:
Most Cahokians were commoners. They grew the corn, built the mounds and stockade, and made their livings as tradesmen, artisans, warriors, hunters, and fishermen. When nothing of community importance required their attention, commoners controlled their own lives. They could rise in status through marriage, payment of tribute, or war deeds. |