1.1 Developments in East Asia from c. 1200 to c. 1450

The Song Dynasty ruled China after the Tang Dynasty. It was known for its strong government, economic growth, and advancements in technology, but it struggled with military weakness.

What is Confucianism, and how did the Song Dynasty use it?

Confucianism is a philosophy founded by Confucius that emphasizes respect, duty, social harmony, and knowing one’s role in society. The Song Dynasty used Confucianism to shape government policies, education, and daily life. Government officials were expected to follow Confucian values, such as filial piety (respect for elders) and moral leadership.

What is Neo-Confucianism, and why was it important during the Song Dynasty?

Neo-Confucianism was a blend of Confucian, Buddhist, and Daoist ideas, emphasizing self-improvement, rational thought, and social order. It became the dominant philosophy during the Song Dynasty and influenced education, politics, and moral values. The civil service exams focused on Neo-Confucian texts, reinforcing its importance in government and society.

What is an imperial bureaucracy, and how did the Song Dynasty use it?

An imperial bureaucracy is a system where government officials help the emperor rule different parts of the country. The Song Dynasty expanded its bureaucracy, making it one of the most structured governments in history. Officials were trained and selected through the civil service exam, ensuring that governance was based on merit rather than family status. However, maintaining such a large bureaucracy was expensive and put strain on the economy.

What was the civil service exam, and how did it impact Song Dynasty government?

The civil service exam was a test based on Confucian texts, including the Analects. It determined who could become a government official. Because of this exam, the Song Dynasty’s government was based on merit (ability and knowledge) rather than family background. However, only wealthy families could afford the education needed to pass, so power remained with the elite.

What is the Mandate of Heaven?

The Mandate of Heaven was the belief that the emperor ruled because the heavens had given them the right to govern. As long as the emperor ruled justly and maintained stability, they kept the Mandate. If the emperor became corrupt or weak, the Mandate would be lost, and a new ruler would take over.

How did the Mandate of Heaven contribute to the dynastic cycle?

The dynastic cycle refers to the rise, rule, decline, and fall of Chinese dynasties. It worked like this:

1. A new dynasty gains power and claims the Mandate of Heaven.

2. The dynasty rules effectively, bringing peace and prosperity.

3. Over time, corruption, economic problems, and weak leadership emerge.

4. Disasters and rebellions break out, showing that the Mandate has been lost.

5. The dynasty collapses, and a new ruler claims the Mandate, starting the cycle again.

The Song Dynasty ruled under the Mandate of Heaven but eventually lost power to the Mongols, who established the Yuan Dynasty in 1279 CE.

What were signs that a dynasty had lost the Mandate of Heaven?

When a dynasty was losing the Mandate, signs of divine disapproval would appear, such as:

• Natural disasters (floods, earthquakes, famines)

• Peasant uprisings and revolts

• Corrupt or weak leadership

• Economic decline

• Invasions by foreign powers

These signs indicated that the heavens no longer favored the ruler, leading to rebellion and the rise of a new dynasty.