The oldest purpose of government is to provide public services to its citizens. This has been a fundamental part of government since ancient times, when the first complex societies developed in the Middle East, Egypt, and Asia. The earliest governments were responsible for providing basic services such as protection and education, as well as providing access to resources such as land and water.
Throughout history, the role of government has grown and changed in response to the needs of society. In some cases, governments have taken on a larger role in providing services such as healthcare, public transportation, and public housing. In other cases, governments have taken on a more regulatory role, setting policies to ensure that citizens are treated fairly and to protect the environment.
Regardless of the specific purpose, governments have always been in the business of providing public services. From the earliest societies up until today, governments have been responsible for protecting citizens from harm, providing access to resources, and promoting economic growth. Governments have also been responsible for providing services such as education, health care, and law enforcement.
In modern times, governments have continued to take on a larger role in providing public services. Governments have provided access to public parks and libraries, and have taken on a larger role in providing healthcare and public transportation. Governments have also taken on a larger role in regulating the economy, setting policies to ensure fair competition, and protecting the environment.
Overall, the oldest purpose of government is to provide public services to its citizens. This has been the fundamental role of government since ancient times, and it has only grown and changed over the centuries in response to the needs of society. Governments have been responsible for protecting citizens from harm, providing access to resources, promoting economic growth, and providing services such as education, healthcare, and law enforcement.