China: Dynastic Cycle

1
China Dynastic Cycle

• Mandate of Heaven

2
Class Discussion. THINK!

• Identify various ways people gain power of a
  nation.
• Name ways of justifying the gain of power.

3
Early Dynasties

• I.  Shang Dynasty (c. 1766 B.C.- 1027 B.C.)
• A.    Advanced system of writingB.    Bronze
  metallurgyC.    First Chinese Writer
• D.    Mainly FarmersE.    Religion - Shangdi
  (Major god) and Oracle Bones
• II.  Zhou (Chou) Dynasty  (1027 B.C.- 256 B.C.)
• A.    Mandate of Heaven
• B.    Feudalism

4
Mandate of Heaven

• The Mandate of Heaven is based on four
  principles
• The right to rule is granted by Heaven.
• There is only one Heaven therefore there can be
  only one ruler.
• The right to rule is based on the virtue of the
  ruler.
• The right to rule is not limited to one dynasty.

5
Mandate of Heaven contd

• Signs of a failing government- loss of mandate-
  include
• peasant rebellions
• floods, famine, earthquakes
• invasion
• A new dynasty will claim Mandate of Heaven
  because of the previous failing government

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New leader gains the Mandate of Heaven
Dynasty is founded by a powerful leader

• Period of Power and Prosperity
• Restores peace
• Restores glory to country
• Builds roads, irrigation systems, improves
  everyday life for people in the country

The Dynastic Cycle
Period of rebellion, dynasty overthrown

• Period of Decline
• Higher taxes
• Social Services Decline
• Natural Disasters

Leader loses the Mandate of Heaven