on a web of complex family and personal relationships. Precolonial kingdoms were
loosely organized such that their authority diminished with geographical distance from the
center (Anderson 1972, Geertz 1968: 36-39). Hence, precolonial political structure can be
more accurately seen as having the characteristics of "contractualism," "plurality," and
"diversity" (Reid 1998: 27-29). The political structure of early native states in Java did
not have rigid vassal hierarchy, no clear cut distinction between central and local sources of
power. Premodern states maintained close connections and loyalty of their agents through
marriage alliance and keeping them in the court (Reid 1993: 262). Constant contests
between rival states prevented the creation of state structures