Final answer:
Hunter-gatherer societies were an earlier form of social stratification that existed prior to permanent settlements. B) Hunter-gatherer societies
Step-by-step explanation:
An earlier form of social stratification that existed prior to the development of permanent settlements is hunter-gatherer societies. Hunter-gatherer societies were based around kinship or tribes and relied on their surroundings for survival. They hunted wild animals and foraged for uncultivated plants for food. Within these societies, there would have been some degree of differentiation based on physical ability, intelligence, and other traits, although they were generally more egalitarian compared to later societies. For instance, men in agricultural societies typically worked in the fields while women were relegated to domestic tasks. The development of agriculture allowed for specialization and the emergence of social classes, with those who acquired considerable wealth becoming leaders with authority over society. Hunter-gatherer societies, which existed before the development of permanent settlements, often had informal social hierarchies based on factors such as age, gender, and skill. While not as structured as later forms of social stratification, there were still distinctions in roles and status within these communities. Individuals with particular skills, like skilled hunters or gatherers, might have held higher esteem or influence. However, it is essential to note that the level of social complexity and formalized social stratification seen in options A, C, and D (Caste system, Feudalism, and Slavery) emerged with the advent of more complex and settled civilizations.