History - Junior Secondary 2 - Meaning and characteristics of non-centralized states

TERM: 1^ST TERM

WEEK: 1 and 2

CLASS: Junior Secondary School 2

AGE: 13 years

DURATION: 40 minutes

DATE:

SUBJECT: History

TOPIC: Meaning and characteristics of non-centralized states

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, the learners should be able to

1. ) Discuss the meaning of non-centralized states
2. ) Explain the characteristics of non-centralized states
3. ) Give examples of the non-centralized states

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers, demonstration, story-telling, videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: recommended history textbooks for Junior Secondary School 2

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES:

WEEK 1

NOTE

NON-CENTRALIZED STATES

Non-centralized states, also known as stateless societies or decentralized societies, refer to political entities or communities that lack a centralized governing authority or hierarchical structure typical of centralized states. Instead of having a single sovereign authority or ruler, non-centralized states are often organized around kinship ties, clans, or councils. Power and decision-making are distributed among various local leaders or groups, allowing for a more egalitarian social structure.

Examples of Non-Centralized States

In Nigeria, several ethnic groups and societies exemplify the characteristics of non-centralized states:

• The Igbo: Traditionally, the Igbo people operated through a decentralized system of governance known as "village assemblies" or "umunna," where decisions were made collectively by community members without a central ruler.
• The Tiv: The Tiv people are organized into various clans and councils, with a chief or leader called the "Tor Tiv" who serves more as a figurehead rather than an absolute authority, as decisions are often made through consensus among the community.
• The Jukun: The Jukun people exhibit decentralized political structures, with local chiefs and elders influencing governance rather than a centralized authority.
• The Kanuri: While they have a king (the Shehu), many Kanuri communities historically functioned with a decentralized system where local leaders held significant power and influence.

EVALUATION:   

1. Define non-centralized states and explain their significance in the context of political organization. How do they differ from centralized states?
2. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of non-centralized states in governance. In what ways can they promote or hinder social cohesion?
3. Provide examples of non-centralized states in Nigeria and explain how their governance structures operate. What role do kinship and clan ties play in these societies?
4. Analyze the impact of colonialism on the governance structures of non-centralized states in Nigeria. How did colonial policies affect their political organization?
5. Evaluate the relevance of non-centralized governance structures in contemporary Nigerian society. How do these traditional systems coexist with modern state governance?

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively

WEEK 2

NOTE

CHARACTERISTICS OF NON-CENTRALIZED STATES
Non-centralized states exhibit several distinctive characteristics, including:

1. Decentralized Leadership: Leadership is distributed among various local leaders or councils, each responsible for their specific communities or groups, which fosters a sense of shared responsibility.
2. Community-Based Resource Management: Resources such as land, water, and food are often managed collectively by the community rather than controlled by a central authority, promoting sustainable practices.
3. Flexible Social Norms: Social norms and rules may be less formalized and can adapt to changing circumstances, allowing communities to be more resilient in the face of challenges.
4. Religious and Cultural Autonomy: Non-centralized states often allow for greater religious and cultural expression, as local practices can flourish without a central authority imposing uniformity.
5. Local Conflict Resolution: Disputes and conflicts are typically resolved within the community through traditional means, such as elders’ councils or mediation, rather than through formal judicial systems.
6. High Community Engagement: Community members are often highly engaged in decision-making processes, leading to a strong sense of belonging and participation in governance.
7. Diverse Leadership Roles: Different leaders may emerge based on specific skills or knowledge, such as elders, warriors, or spiritual leaders, creating a dynamic leadership landscape tailored to the community’s needs.
8. Fluid Political Boundaries: Political boundaries may be less defined, allowing for inter-community alliances and interactions, which can enhance trade and cooperation.
9. Emphasis on Oral Tradition: Governance and laws are often transmitted through oral traditions rather than written systems, preserving cultural heritage and ensuring adaptability.
10. Ritual and Ceremony: Cultural rituals and ceremonies often play a crucial role in governance, reinforcing community ties and maintaining social order.
11. Collective Identity: A strong sense of collective identity is fostered through shared customs, traditions, and history, enhancing social cohesion among community members.
12. Local Economic Autonomy: Economic activities are usually localized, allowing communities to determine their economic priorities and engage in trade with neighboring groups based on mutual benefit.

EVALUATION:   

1. How does decentralized leadership in non-centralized states contribute to community empowerment and collective decision-making?
2. In what ways does community-based resource management promote sustainability and resilience in non-centralized states compared to centralized systems?
3. How do flexible social norms within non-centralized states enable communities to adapt to changing circumstances and challenges?
4. What role does local conflict resolution play in maintaining social order and community cohesion in non-centralized states?
5. How do diverse leadership roles and fluid political boundaries enhance cooperation and trade among different communities within non-centralized states?

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively