Ming China, 1368 -1644 CE and Qing China 1644-1800 CE

Power Acquisition: Ming China, 1368 -1644 CE and Qing China 1644-1800 CE
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Power Acquisition: Ming China, 1368 -1644 CE and Qing China 1644-1800 CE
1.0 Introduction
It is undeniable that the process of acquiring power is much easier than maintaining power and influence over the people one is set to rule and govern. One can acquire power through forceful take over, but in order to retain power and influence, one must build a good relationship with the people he governs. The true ability of a leader is tested when one is under pressure and this pressure tends to build up over time due to various reasons, for instance, the struggle to maintain ones influence while at the same time satisfying the needs of the different people he governs. In most cases, seizing power lacks the legitimacy required by the members of a particular state to govern and lead effectively. In such cases, the credibility of the leaders is put to question and their leadership might not be as effective as expected, therefore, the probability of losing the acquired power is high. The Ming and Qing dynasties are examples of empires that rules China 1368-1800 CE and the struggle for power was eminent during this period. This essay explores the concept of power acquisition that was predominant during the Ming China (1368-1644) and the Qing China (1644-1800), with emphasis on political, economic and cultural landscape in China during their rule.
2.0 Ming China, 1368 -1644 CE
Beginning 1368, several empires fought to attain leadership and influence and despite the fact that they were the leaders during that era, their influence slowly subsided and their ability to retain their power diminished over time creating kingdoms whose leaders had questionable integrity. Under the Ming dynasty that took power over from the Mongol Yuan dynasty in 1368, the Chinese witnessed a change in lifestyle, especially in the way they were clothed, fed, educated, and importantly, the manner in which they were ruled. The ability to retain power lies solely with the will of the people and the suitability of the leader to lead the country socially, economically, politically and in some cases leaders are expected to lead their own people into war against their enemies. Through all these aspects, the authoritative aspect of a leader should be clearly portrayed otherwise the leader loses power and influence over the people he governs.[Clunas, C. (2013). Screen of Kings: Royal Art and Power in Ming China. New York: Realkton Books. p.1] [Yamashita, M., & Lindesay, W. (2007). The Great Wall: From beginning to end. New York: Sterling, p.76]
2.1 Politics and Government in Ming Dynasty
In Ming China between 1368 and 1644 AD for instance the emperor made sure that the government had absolute control over the different issues in the society. He came up with different political uprisings to ensure that his leadership was stable and firm. The political uprisings he led resulted in the death of thousands of people and his style of leadership was not that considerate to the needs of the people he governed. He cared less about the lives of his people and his sole aim was to gain a solid political influence over thousands of people who were forced to bow to h...