Chinese Dynastic System and Unique Culture Research

Chinese History
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Chinese history
Chinese Dynastic System
China’s history is wide and complex, characterized by dynasties with own unique culture. Traditional China had 83 dynasties plus 559 emperors, and has the world’s oldest and most influential civilizations (Tsin, 1995). Lasting from 1122-211 BC, the Zhou Dynasty is recorded as the longest ruling dynasty in Chinese history (Tsin, 1995). The shortest ruling Chinese dynasty was the Qin Dynasty, which lasted for 15 years. The history of China records Emperor Kangxi as the longest ruling emperor- he was the second ruler of Qin Dynasty and reigned for 61 years (1661-1722) (Tsin, 1995). On the other hand, Emperor Modi of Jin was the shortest ruling emperor (ruled for one day) and was the last ruler of Jin Dynasty. In China’s history, Yuan Dynasty owed the biggest territory, covering over 12 million square kilometres (Tsin, 1995). The southern Song Dynasty is believed to have the smallest territory. Wu Zetian was the only female emperor in history of China. Zetian ruled the Tang Dynasty and during her reign, Chinese Buddhism reached its peak and influence. Chinese history records Puyi as the last emperor, ruling Qin Dynasty (1908-1912) (Tsin, 1995). The most powerful dynasties in history of China are Tang and Han Dynasties. Both of these dynasties had strong influence on political, economic, and cultural impacting on neighbouring countries.
Several factors contributed to the longevity of the Chinese dynastic system. First, the three Chinese philosophies including legalism, Daoism, and Confucianism (Hogarth et al, 1999). These philosophies by Chinese thinkers improved the dynasties in different ways. For instance, Confucius (551-479), advocated for Chinese humanism. Through his philosophy, he made moral codes to help human conduct, and built strong relationships among members of a community. In addition, Confucius had a set of right relation between subjects and the emperor, children and parents, husband and wife, and the older and younger brothers/sisters. Confucius also believed that if each member of the society would do his/her duty, the whole society would perform well (Hogarth et al, 1999). He urged emperors to set good examples and rule for the common good. Another philosopher was Lao Tse, the founder of Daoism. According to Daoism, people should forget the worldly pleasures and return to nature and Dao- the force that guides everything (Hogarth et al, 1999). Daoism was another way to help the dynasties to stay in peace. Another philosophy was legalism developed by Hanfeizi-a scholar. This was a system of law that led to establishment of severe punishments and harsh laws to force people to carry out their duty (Hogarth et al, 1999). Followers of Hanfeizi believed that a strong emperor was required to maintain order in the society. Most aristocrats loved the idea of legalism due to use of power and force. Harsh laws and punishments were used to control Chinese people, such as farmers. These three philosophies were used during times of disorder and when applied, helped the longevity of a dynasty.
Another factor that contributed to longevity of Chinese dynasty system is proper organi...