The G.R.E.A.T.S.S. are an acronym for the 7 characteristics that define a civilization.

Government: Leaders and laws

Religion: Gods, leaders, and places of worship

Economy: System of trade, money, social classes and jobs

Arts, Culture, and Tradition: Music, theater, painting, sculpture, diet, and architecture

Technology: Development of ideas, mathematical and scientific discoveries, inventions, means of power, and use of specialized tools

Stable Food Suppy and Permanent Settlement: Permanent shelter, large and cooperative groups of people, agriculture and food surplus.

System of Writing: Recordkeeping, education, communication, and literature.