Based on a comparison of the Zhou and Qin dynasties, when do empires fall?(1 point) Responses when they have a large military when they have a large military when they expand their territory when they expand their territory when they build complicated irrigation systems when they build complicated irrigation systems when there is a large economic gap between rich and poor
The correct response would be when there is a large economic gap between the rich and poor.
Empires can fall when there is a large economic gap between rich and poor.
Empires can fall for various reasons, including those mentioned in the question options. However, it's important to note that these factors are not the sole determinants of an empire's downfall. In order to gain a deeper understanding, let's discuss the factors that contributed to the fall of the Zhou and Qin dynasties and how they align with the given options.
1. Large military: Both the Zhou and Qin dynasties had large military forces. However, having a large military alone does not guarantee an empire's fall. A strong military can actually help maintain stability and defend against external threats.
2. Expansion of territory: Expanding their territories was a significant factor in the fall of both dynasties. The Zhou dynasty faced challenges in controlling their vast territories, leading to regional fragmentation and conflicts within the empire. Similarly, the Qin dynasty's rapid and overextended expansion contributed to their downfall.
3. Complicated irrigation systems: Although complex irrigation systems can be beneficial for agricultural production, there is no direct evidence to suggest that they contribute to the fall of empires.
4. Economic gap between rich and poor: Economic disparities can create societal tensions, leading to instability within an empire. In the case of the Zhou dynasty, the concentration of wealth among the aristocrats and the exploitation of peasants contributed to their decline. Similarly, the harsh policies of the Qin dynasty, such as heavy taxation and forced labor, exacerbated the economic divide.
Therefore, based on the comparison of the Zhou and Qin dynasties, one can conclude that a large economic gap between the rich and poor is a more relevant factor in the fall of empires. However, it is important to consider that there are usually multiple complex factors at play in the decline of empires, and no single factor can be universally applied to all cases.