What was typically needed for large-scale empire building in the ancient world?

Large-scale empire building in the ancient world often required a stable food supply and military strength, which played crucial roles in supporting and expanding territories. A stable food supply ensured that the population could be fed, which was essential for maintaining a strong workforce and army. This stability allowed for population growth, which in turn provided the necessary manpower for military campaigns and the administration of the empire.

Military strength was equally important as it facilitated the protection and expansion of the empire’s borders. A powerful military could conquer neighboring regions, deter invasions, and maintain order within vast territories.

Collectively, these elements allowed empires to thrive in both economic and defensive aspects, fostering environments where culture, trade, and governance could flourish. Other options do not encompass the multifaceted requirements of empire building, such as strong leadership alone, which, while beneficial, cannot substitute for the foundational needs of food supply and military capability. Additionally, a singular focus on agricultural development would overlook the importance of military and administrative organization necessary for managing expansive territories. Widespread use of technology and machinery, while advantageous in some historical contexts, was predominantly not the driving force behind empire building in the ancient world, where the focus was more on organization, military prowess, and resource management.