What characteristic did both cities share in terms of governance?

Both cities shared the characteristic of having strong central governments, which provided stability and order in their administrations. A strong central government typically allows for more efficient decision-making, uniformity in laws and regulations, and the ability to mobilize resources for public projects, defense, and trade. This structural governance model is especially important in urban centers that face complex challenges due to their size and population density. Strong central governments can facilitate rapid development, infrastructure improvement, and social administration, which are crucial for managing the needs of populations in growing urban environments.

In contrast, decentralized governments would lead to fragmented governance and a lack of cohesion, hindering effective administration. Resources in these cities, rather than being scarce, were often abundant or well-managed, supporting economic activities and population growth. Additionally, while some cities may have had governance systems involving councils, the essence of strong central authority is more consistent with the organization seen in historically significant cities.