As societies grew, they became more hierarchical, with distinct social classes emerging based on wealth, occupation, and access to resources. Those who controlled land and livestock often held greater power, while others worked the land or served the elite. This structure affected how land was divided and used, further influencing the local biodiversity. In regions where maize cultivation dominated, for example, other plant species might be pushed out, reducing the variety of life in the area. However, the allocation of resources in more balanced agricultural systems helped maintain biodiversity, ensuring that different species could thrive. The shift from a nomadic to a sedentary lifestyle thus had profound effects on human culture, the environment, and the organization of societies.