Ancient Society

Lewis Henry Morgan's 'Ancient Society' delves into the American Indian way of life, presenting a vast collection of factual material on primitive-communal societies. Morgan's conclusions are meticulously drawn from these facts, and where data is lacking, he employs reasoned deductions. He periodizes primitive society by linking each era with advancements in production techniques, tracing the 'great sequence of inventions and discoveries.' The book explores the history of institutions, divided into three branches: family, property, and government, illustrating the progress of human society./n/n Morgan argues that mankind's progress is a result of the gradual evolution of mental and moral powers through experience and a protracted struggle against obstacles. This seminal work offers a comprehensive view of societal development, from its earliest stages to the threshold of civilization, providing a foundational understanding of human societal evolution.