HIST 11B Lecture Notes - Lecture 3: Fan Zhongyan, Song Dynasty, Emperor Zhenzong
Document Summary
Double number of cities (26 52); trade stimulated. Success in establishing lasting dynasty attributed to military skill. Pensions off regional commanders and replaces with civilian officials; switched every three years. 2nd emperor (brother to the 1st) used education to strengthen his rule (examination system) Examination system: roots came from han dynasty. Three level process: xiucai (flowering talen) county-level degree. Gave you prestige and exemption to labor taxation. Exempt from corporal punishment, of a different status. Quotas are set (5/10 can pass to 1/200 in 1275 ce) Rags-to-riches ideal is prominent and captured in culture. Poem by 4th emperor zhenzong (997 - 1022) Undertone of elite dependent on the state economically. Everyone looking to advance socially via the examination system. Historical significance: some degree of upward social mobility. Intellectual unity among gentry; process of philosophical indoctrination. Marriage alliances to perpetuate wealth in office. Status dependent on passing examination (not landholding) Leaders in the community; functioned as extension of state power.