How did the feudal system help Zhou leaders control their empires?
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This site has some information for you.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zhou_Dynasty#Fengjian_.28Feudalism.29
The feudal system played a significant role in helping Zhou leaders control their empires. Here's how it worked:
1. Land Distribution: The Zhou rulers allocated land to their loyal nobles, military officers, and other supporters. This land was granted in exchange for their military service, loyalty, and tribute to the central government. By distributing land, the Zhou leaders could maintain control over vast territories, ensuring the loyalty and cooperation of the nobles.
2. Hierarchical Structure: The feudal system established a hierarchical structure where each noble lord had authority over the land and the people within their domain. The lords pledged their allegiance to the Zhou ruler and were responsible for managing and governing their territories. This decentralized structure helped the Zhou rulers reduce their administrative burden and maintain control over their vast empire.
3. Military Support: The feudal lords were required to provide military support to the central government. In times of war or any threat to the empire, the nobles would mobilize their own armies, which were composed of their loyal vassals and warriors. This system allowed the Zhou leaders to rely on a network of decentralized military forces for defense and expansion.
4. Tribute and Obligations: The feudal lords owed tribute, taxes, and other forms of support to the Zhou leaders. This included providing financial resources, military equipment, manpower, and other goods. This system ensured a steady flow of resources to the central government, strengthening their control and authority over the empire.
5. Loyalty and Patronage: The Zhou rulers maintained political alliances, support, and loyalty from the nobles through a system of patronage. They rewarded their vassals with titles, privileges, and status within the imperial court. This patronage system created a strong bond of loyalty and dependence between the Zhou leaders and the feudal lords, ensuring the stability and control of the empire.
In summary, the feudal system helped Zhou leaders control their empires by distributing land, establishing a hierarchical structure, relying on feudal lords for military support, ensuring tribute and obligations, and fostering loyalty through patronage.