The Development of Chinese Civilizations

Development of Chinese Civilizations

Fundamental elements of Chinese governance came with the second dynasty, the Zhou (1027 to 221 BCE). These principles include the Mandate of Heaven which argues that the ruling dynasty has been charged by Heaven to rule the people with benevolence (called the Dao) and confucianism. While confucianism did not have a profound political impact until about 200 BCE the basic tenants of filial piety, adherence to tradition, patriarchy and duty were established during the Zhou dynasty. The Zhou were only able to maintain centralized authority until about 800 BCE, after that they relied on a system of feudalism to administer the empire and by 480 BCE civil war thrust China into the Warring States Period. This conflict lasted until the Shi Huangdi emerged victorious and established the Qin dynasty. 

Development of Chinese Civilizations

During these years of conflict a new governing philosophy emerged in China called legalism. Proponents of legalism argued that humans were innately self serving and destructive therefore societal order had to be maintained with strict laws and harsh punishments. Shi Huangdi, prescribed to these beliefs and built a highly centralized bureaucracy around these tenants. While the Qin Dynasty was short-lived it is given credit for unifying China politically, economically, and culturally. Under the Qin, weights, measures, coinage, laws, writing, and axle length were all standardized. The state directed the construction of extensive roads and canals, work on the Great Wall of China began and land reform broke up the power of feudal lords. These reforms laid the foundations for the effective administration of the vast empires of the dynasties that followed.

Development of Chinese Civilizations

The extensive use of forced labor and excessive taxation quickly led to rebellion after the death of Shi Huangdi in 210 BCE. Out of these rebellions, a peasant named Liu Bang emerged as the new emperor of China and established the Han Dynasty. The Han Dynasty maintained many of the policies of the Qin dynasty but tempered the severity of Legalism with the political use of Confucianism which required leaders to earn the respect of the governed. This combination proved durable and long-lived.

Development of Chinese Civilizations

The Han were able to maintain control of an empire even larger than the Qin. From their capital in Chang'an, the Han directed a vast bureaucracy organized into nine ministries and regional authorities. The bureaucracy was staffed by educated civil servants who received their appointments based on their score on a rigorous civil service examination. The state operated an effective tax collection system, a postal service, canals, and defensive walls, and protected the empire from the constant threat of nomadic invaders from the north. 

Development of Chinese Civilizations

The security of the Han period led to a thriving economy that engaged in extensive internal and international trade, profiting tremendously from the export of silk. Economic growth was also aided by advancements in farm technology like the horse collar and better irrigation.

Development of Chinese Civilizations

The Han dynasty began to decline around 200 CE, contributing factors included: bureaucratic corruption, and infighting, food shortages, epidemic diseases, banditry, and pressure from nomadic invaders along the northern border.