What was a significant characteristic of Mayan governance?

The significant characteristic of Mayan governance that stands out is the concentration of power within elite families, particularly those of noble lineage. The Maya civilization was organized into city-states, each governed by a king or a ruling elite who often belonged to powerful dynastic families. These rulers exercised authority not only over governance but also played crucial roles in religious and cultural practices, further solidifying their status and control over their subjects.

This system of governance emphasized hereditary succession—powers and rights were often passed down through family lines, meaning that only those from noble families could attain leadership positions. Unlike some modern democratic systems where officials are elected, the Mayans did not have an electoral process in which plebeians or commoners could participate in leadership selection. Additionally, while the military had an important role in protecting and expanding the city-states, it did not serve as the primary source of governance in Mayan society. Thus, governance was not rooted in military control but instead in the established familial hierarchies.