Final answer:
In ancient Mesopotamia, the political leaders and high-ranking priests were at the top of the social classes, holding both secular and religious power, often claiming a divine right to rule, and controlling economic and labor resources.
Step-by-step explanation:
In ancient Mesopotamia, the social structure was highly stratified, with different classes having specific roles and privileges. At the top of the social classes were the political leaders and high-ranking priests. These elites were seen as representatives or even incarnations of the gods themselves and held control over the land, economic output, and labor of the people. The earliest texts refer to rulers titled en (lord), lugal (king), or ensi (governor), indicating their political and religious significance. The priesthood had the authority to manage the city's resources because it was believed that the patron god of a city 'owned' the city, justifying the priesthood's control over economic affairs.
Further solidifying the role of the political elite, the kingship in Mesopotamia was seen as a divine mandate with kings being closely linked to religious leaders or priests. Kings were responsible for leading in battle, ensuring the favor of the gods, maintaining city infrastructure, and enforcing justice. Their roles were intertwined with religion, and they often claimed a divine right to rule. Alongside the king, nobility held the highest social status and were involved in governance, military leadership, and religious duties.