The earliest classifications were based on the _____ of various organisms.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks about the basis on which the earliest classifications of organisms were made.

2. **Historical Context**: The earliest classification systems were developed by ancient philosophers, notably Aristotle. He is often credited with creating one of the first systematic approaches to classifying living organisms.

3. **Classification Criteria**: Aristotle's classification was primarily based on observable characteristics of organisms. These characteristics are known as morphological characters, which include features such as shape, size, structure, and form.

4. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the earliest classifications were based on the simple morphological characters of various organisms.

5. **Final Answer**: The earliest classifications were based on the **simple morphological characters** of various organisms.

---