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

Learning Objective

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

Empires and states in Afro-Eurasia and the Americas demonstrated continuity, innovation, and diversity in the 13th century. This included the Song Dynasty of China, which utilized traditional methods of Confucianism and an imperial bureaucracy to maintain and justify its rule.

THEMATIC FOCUS - Governance GOV

A variety of internal and external factors contribute to state formation, expansion, and decline. Governments maintain order through a variety of administrative institutions, policies, and procedures, and governments obtain, retain, and exercise power in different ways and for different purposes.

Write a short reflection that answers the following question: 
How did Confucian ideology both strengthen and limit the Song Dynasty’s rule?