Define the term "City-State" in ancient civilizations.

Study for the University of Central Florida (UCF) WOH2012 World Civilization I Exam. Engage with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each equipped with hints and detailed explanations. Prepare to excel in your exam!

The term "City-State" in ancient civilizations refers to an independent entity that consists of a city and its surrounding territory. This definition captures the essence of city-states as they were sovereign regions that included not only the urban center, which typically housed political, religious, and economic activities, but also the agricultural land and villages that supported the city's population.

City-states were particularly prominent in ancient Greece and Mesopotamia. They operated independently from one another, often having their own governments and laws, and they engaged in trade or conflict with neighboring city-states. The autonomy inherent to city-states allowed for diverse cultures and political structures to develop within relatively small geographical areas, which was a key characteristic of ancient civilization development.

The other options do not accurately describe the concept of city-states. A large empire with multiple territories indicates a different political structure involving centralization and control over vast regions, while an agricultural society governed by a monarchy suggests a different governing style and societal organization. Lastly, a community that lacked political organization does not fit the definition of a city-state, which implies an organized political and social structure specifically within the context of a city and its environment.

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