Dal Chiefdom allo Stato: Evoluzione delle élite militari nel Caucaso meridionale nel II e I millennio a.C.

Abstract

This paper aims at highlighting the political process which began in the Caucasus toward the end of second millennium, characterized by the emergence of several interrelated cultures and the subsequent rise of numerous local political entities. This process took strength during the first half of the first millennium and reached its apex with the advent of the Urartian Kingdom and its state organization. This process was characterized by a progressive militarization of the local communities. It involves many interrelated aspects that encompass all levels of society, strongly affecting its organization and economy.