How did the growth of empires impact the social classes within an empire?

The growth of empires often led to the expansion of social classes, creating greater stratification within societies. As empires expanded, new elites emerged, often composed of military leaders and wealthy merchants, while existing classes, such as peasants and laborers, could experience increased exploitation. Additionally, the incorporation of diverse cultures and peoples could lead to shifts in social dynamics and the creation of hybrid social structures. Overall, the complexities of governance, economic demands, and cultural integration influenced the hierarchy and relationships among different social classes within the empire.