- Urbanization: The presence of large, permanent settlements with high population densities.
- Social stratification: The division of society into different classes or groups based on wealth, power, or status.
- Political organization: The development of centralized political structures, such as states or empires.
- Economic specialization: The emergence of different occupations and industries, such as agriculture, trade, and manufacturing.
- Writing: The development of a system of writing to record information.
- Monumental architecture: The construction of large, impressive buildings, such as temples, palaces, and pyramids.
- Religion: The development of organized religious beliefs and practices.
Complex civilizations are typically found in river valleys or other areas with abundant resources, such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, and China. They first arose around 3500 BC, and they have continued to develop and spread throughout the world ever since.
Complex civilizations have a number of advantages over simpler societies. They are able to produce more food and goods, support larger populations, and develop more advanced technologies. They also tend to be more stable and prosperous than simpler societies.
However, complex civilizations also face a number of challenges, such as environmental degradation, social inequality, and political instability. They are also more vulnerable to attack from external enemies.
Despite these challenges, complex civilizations have played a major role in human history. They have been responsible for many of the world's greatest achievements, and they have shaped the course of human civilization for centuries.