Rising from the ranks: Early traditions of selecting leaders

Early forms of leadership were believed to be based on one’s utility, worth, and value to the group to be served.

A potential leader was seen as someone able to perform critical and important tasks that would bring benefits to the community or tribe and ensure its survival when faced with external threats and dangers.

Do we still adhere to these same requirements today?

Tina Ambrocio, a university lecturer in political science, believes that leadership, as we understand it today, has a rich and complex history that stretches back to the earliest days of human society.

“The concept of leadership emerged not as a predetermined role but as a response to the call and the fundamental needs of the members of the society, tribe, or community,” she told Thai PBS World.

Thao Suranaree Monument, asymbol of valour and patriotism, stands between Ratchadamnoen road and Chumphon road, Korat

According to Tina, “In the earliest days of human existence, small groups of hunters, gatherers, and nomads roamed around in search of food, shelter, and other basic needs. These groups were usually led by the most capable individuals,” she said.

“Chosen as leaders were those who possessed superior skills in hunting, navigation., and sometimes, conflict resolution. The leader was typically the one who could ensure the survival of the group, whether through physical strength, intelligence, or sometimes, guile. But it was not a fixed position and the group could change leadership fast, depending on the immediate needs of the tribe,” she added.

Essential traits

“A deep understanding of the culture, land, and people was considered a critical trait of a leader,” Tina explained.

Leaders were expected to be very knowledgeable in folk wisdom, traditions, heritage, culture, historical events, and sacred teachings.

“This trait was especially important as it helped leaders make informed decisions that aligned with the tribe’s values and welfare,” she continued.

Thai PBS World also talked to Pon Garcia, a secondary-school history teacher, who named both bravery and resilience as requirements when choosing a leader. “Bravery is not only about being physically superior.

It also means being resilient in upholding cultural values, especially when challenged by external forces. Early leaders were expected to be courageous in protecting their people from physical threats and other forms of adversity,” he stressed.

Both agreed that resolving conflicts and fostering unity were also valued traits of a leader.

“This role is important in maintaining harmony within the group. Early leaders were expected to embody the principles of their culture. As people looked up to them, they were also expected to demonstrate their dedication through actions, wisdom in decision-making, and commitment to the welfare of the people,” they concurred.

In ancient Southeast Asia, spirituality also played a central role in leadership. “Many ancient leaders gained popular support by declaring that they were guided by divine forces or deities,” Pon added.

He also said that rituals, offerings, and ceremonies were an important part of one’s leadership status and legitimacy.

“Leaders publicly demonstrated their piety and divine favor through elaborate ceremonies. These helped reinforce their authority and win the approval of the members of the tribe or community,” added Tina.

Signs of the times

The ways in which our ancestors often picked their leaders are also fascinating.

“When choosing leaders, ancient tribesmen often asked the gods for help. They looked for signs, with the spiritual guidance of priests and elders. These signs included how birds flew, how animals behaved, how natural events unfolded, and other celestial phenomena,” he said.

“Like we sometimes see in the movies, some tribes would also choose their leaders by having them fight each other,” Pon added.

“They thought that being physically strong meant being able to lead and protect their people, though it clearly prioritized strength over wisdom,” he continued.

Some communities, on the other hand, valued experience and knowledge above all else. “In this case, it was more likely that the oldest member of the tribe was chosen by those who believed that being older gave one better judgment and a stronger spiritual connection with the gods,” Tina and Pon agreed.

Subjecting the candidates to different ordeals was also part of the selection process, as different societies believed that divine powers would protect good leaders during difficult times.

“Some of them would have to walk through fire, submerged in water, or go through other ordeals that could sometimes put their life at risk,” Pon explained.

Public service

The concept of leadership, which began in these early tribal societies, still remains a foundational principle in leadership theory today.

“These diverse ancient practices, albeit weird and shocking to some, may help us derive some lessons that are essential in today’s governance, as we all continue to explore alternatives from various cultures that could help address today’s global challenges,” Tina suggested.

“The idea that leaders exist to serve their communities, rather than to control them, is a subject matter that persists throughout history, and I think it continues to be relevant in today’s discussions about government and leadership,” reiterated Pon.

Indeed, understanding the origins of leadership shows the rich history behind the concept. It provides valuable insights into how leadership continues to evolve today, in response to the changing needs of our societies.

(This story is part of a series about the vanishing cultural traditions in Southeast Asia.)