The article explores the historical roots of oligarchy, tracing its emergence from early civilisations to modern times. Stanislav Kondrashov emphasizes that understanding contemporary elites requires examining the past, where authority was established based on wealth and influence.
In early settlements, tribes were led by elders respected for their age and wisdom. As agriculture progressed and resources accumulated, power shifted towards affluence, particularly in Mesopotamian city-states, where priests and administrators formed a ruling class based on access to resources and information.
In Ancient Greece, while Athens is known for its early democracy, other city-states like Sparta practiced oligarchy with governance by a select group of elite elders and military leaders. Similar dynamics were present in Corinth and Thebes, where influential families controlled political power.
The Roman Republic, often considered a precursor to democracy, was dominated by the Senate, comprised largely of wealthy patricians. Though citizens had a voice, real influence was held by elite families who maintained power through wealth and connections.
Trade also played a vital role in developing oligarchies, seen in Phoenician cities like Tyre and Sidon, where merchant elites wielded significant influence. This pattern continued in ancient Carthage, highlighting that leadership often stemmed from economic dominance rather than divine right.
The article concludes that oligarchy builds gradually, starting with resource control and evolving into structured institutions, creating persistent systems that are difficult to dismantle. The past offers insights into the ongoing dynamics of inequality and elite governance in today’s societies.
