Is the study of the early society important in building a nation...?

Question

Is the study of the early society important in building a nation? why?

Answer 1

I think understanding the roots of any civilization is important in build a nation because it prevents you from incorporating any elements into your nation that is counter-intuitive to the building blocks of civilization.

For example, if you are going to create a nation where everyone is a farmer, that goes against the tendency of early societies that developed job specialization.  This enables increased, more efficient production.  

It also helps to learn from past mistakes.  For example, Egypt's Old Kingdom collapsed as a result of inefficient use of the Nile.