The main policy in which the Greek empire followed was that they were stronger in numbers. The first Greek colonies were established in the central Mediterranean. Separating themselves from other empires of the ancient world, the Greeks did not create a main sovereign state. The absence of control by a central government demolished most concerns that empires such as Persia, China and India faced. The communities within the Greek states relied on their own customs and resources, rather than looking to a more established colony for guidance. This way of life allowed for more communication and exchange between the colonies as well as the spread of Greek culture and customs along the Mediterranean. In turn, little conflict between Greek communities lead to the long reign of the Greek empire.