What were the political and social structures of Africa's stateless societies between 800 and 1500?

Answer 1

Between 800 and 1500, Africa's stateless societies often operated through decentralized political structures, relying on kinship ties, age sets, and councils of elders for governance rather than centralized authority. Leadership was typically fluid and based on consensus, with power distributed among various clans or families. Socially, these societies emphasized community cohesion and collective responsibility, with roles defined by gender, age, and lineage. Conflict resolution and decision-making were often handled through negotiation and mediation rather than formal legal systems.