History 102 with WhatifAltHist's Rudyard Lynch and Austin Padgett cover image

The Dark Ages

History 102 with WhatifAltHist's Rudyard Lynch and Austin Padgett

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Individualism Emerges from Clan Structures

The cultural shift from collectivism to individualism marked a significant historical transition around 600 AD, influenced by the breakup of clan systems. In earlier societies, people were identified through their clan affiliations, reinforcing the importance of family and community identity. However, the decline of this tradition led to individuals being recognized independently. An example is the shift in naming conventions, notably in Asian cultures, where family names precede personal names, emphasizing collective identity. The Catholic Church's ban on cousin marriage during the Dark Ages played a crucial role in this transformation by disrupting longstanding clan ties, thereby fostering individual autonomy over familial connections.

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