1.1 Developments in East Asia

Explain the systems of government employed by Chinese dynasties and how they developed over time.

• Chinese dynasties, specifically the Song Dynasty, displayed signficant diversity, continuity, and innovation.

• They utilized Confucian ideals and an imperial bureaucracy to maintain & justify its rule.

• Confucianism: philosophy which promoted filial piety and a patriarchial social structure.

  • Displayed a historical continuity between ancient China & the Song, yet also displaying innovation

  • Filial Piety: the duty of people to honor their ancestors

    • Helped to maintain rule as filial piety promoted respect for authority, and allowed for the same respect to be shown to the emperor as shown with their relatives.

• Imperial Bureaucracy: appointed officials carried out the empire’s policies; in place since the Qin dynasty (continuity)

  • Increasing population allows for the bureaucracy to grow

  • Civil Service Exam: exam given for individuals who wanted a govt. job; based on Confucian ideas

    • Maintained and justified rule as:

      • The bureaucratic system was now a meritocracy

      • There was increased effiency & competency of bureaucratic tasks

    • Provided upward mobility & created many govt. jobs

Explain