Composed of diverse cultures, eastern states contained many different forms of social hierarchy. Those following Alexander the Great's empire, such as the Seleucids, usually followed their Hellenic traditions and maintained a great deal of Greek culture. Over time, the native nobility would adopt these ways, often as a means of advancement, creating a Hellenised elite. Underneath them were native peoples and an ever-increasing influx of colonists, all too busy trying to live to worry about much beyond their homes and food. In contrast, the great Parthian kings embraced their Persian heritage, reviving many of their traditions.
