no, i dont think kings had that kind of power without the support of a modern state. they were complicated arrangements of various oligarchies working together, or something like that.
Like I said in OP, that’s how modern dictatorships work, too. They have coups and intrigues and corruption absolutely everywhere you look. The dictator spends most of their time just staying on top and keeping the factions in balance.
I’d say you’re right that the degree of control was lower on average before the conveniences of fast travel and communication, but then again it varied quite a bit. Rome’s level of centralisation is still etched across the European landscape.
you think ancient and medieval monarchies were dictatorships? uh…
You don’t??
no, i dont think kings had that kind of power without the support of a modern state. they were complicated arrangements of various oligarchies working together, or something like that.
Like I said in OP, that’s how modern dictatorships work, too. They have coups and intrigues and corruption absolutely everywhere you look. The dictator spends most of their time just staying on top and keeping the factions in balance.
I’d say you’re right that the degree of control was lower on average before the conveniences of fast travel and communication, but then again it varied quite a bit. Rome’s level of centralisation is still etched across the European landscape.