Write a Short Analysis (200–250 words)
Answer:
Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)
China
Qing Dynasty (1644-1912)
China
Tokugawa Shogunate
(1600-1868)
Japan
Political Structure
(Who held power? How
was it maintained?)
Emperor: Zhu Yuanzhuang
Maintained through
centralized bureaucracy.
The emperor
The shogun. It was maintained by
using centralized feudal systems.
Foreign Policy
(Trade, Isolation, or
Expansion?)
Isolationism
Isolation
Isolation policy, limited foreign
access to Japan.
Social Hierarchy
(Class Structure and
Mobility)
Social code of core laws
sought to block social
mobility, with severe
penalties for those trying to
jump professional and
occupational barriers.
Manchu ruling class at the
top.
Rise of the merchant class,
growing power challenged rigid
social hierarchies, and contributed
to cultural vitality.
Cultural Developments
(Art, Philosophy,
intellectual trends)
Many new achievements in
painting and pottery.
Kanghxi dictionary and
porcelain production.
Merchant patronage fostered
popular culture growth including
literature theatre and cultural arts.
Challenges and
Responses
(Rebellions, invasions,
internal issues)
Weak rulers, government
corruption, high taxes, and
disease, all led to the fall of
the Ming.
Overpopulation led to
exerted pressure on the
land.
Shimabora revolt; led by christian
peasants protesting oppressive
taxation and religious persecution.
