Topic 3: Political power and authority

In this topic students explore the nature and influence of power and authority. One or more of the following empires are recommended:

• the Hellenistic Empire (Alexander the Great)
• Fall of the Roman Republic and the transition to empire
• New Kingdom Egypt
• Qin Dynasty
• Gupta Dynasty
• Neo-Babylonian Empire.

Students examine the nature of power and authority in the society and ways in which this was demonstrated through political, military, religious, social, and economic life. They consider how individuals and small groups exert influence leading to large-scale change in society. They study the roles of individuals in politics, their rivalries and policy differences, and the use of political and/or family positions to gain and maintain power. Students investigate the formation, maintenance, and breakdown of alliances and the development of political, economic, and cultural influence. They consider what artefacts, documents, and other primary and secondary sources suggest about political power and authority. Students analyse the authenticity and reliability of source materials, including the context of their construction and the perspectives presented.