What is the primary focus of historical materialism in understanding societal development?

Historical materialism is a way of understanding how societies grow and change over time, focusing mainly on material conditions like economics and technology. It argues that the way people produce goods and organize their work shapes their social structures, beliefs, and even political ideas. For example, in a society where farming is the main way of life, people's relationships and communities will look very different than in a society driven by factories and machines. This approach helps us see that changes in technology or the economy can lead to shifts in culture and society, rather than just ideas or leadership alone. By examining these material conditions, we can better understand the roots of social issues and historical events.