how did the government differ from the Qin government
The government in ancient China under the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE) differed significantly from previous governments. Here are some key differences:
1. Centralization of power: The Qin government was highly centralized, with power concentrated in the hands of the emperor. The emperor had absolute control over all aspects of governance, legislation, and military affairs. In contrast, previous governments had a more decentralized system with power shared among regional lords and nobles.
2. Legalism: The Qin government adopted the philosophy of Legalism, which emphasized strict adherence to laws and rules. Legalism promoted a strong and efficient bureaucracy, harsh punishments for even minor offenses, and the use of rewards and incentives for obedience. Legalism was not as prominent in previous governments, which often relied on more flexible philosophies like Confucianism or Daoism.
3. Standardization: The Qin government implemented numerous standardized policies throughout the empire. This included standardized laws, weights and measures, currency, and written language. Standardization aimed to create uniformity across the vast empire and reinforce the central authority. Previous governments had less emphasis on standardization and allowed greater regional variations.
4. Infrastructure projects: The Qin government undertook large-scale infrastructure projects, such as the construction of the Great Wall of China and the extension of the canal system. These projects aimed to strengthen the defense and economic prosperity of the empire. Earlier governments had also undertaken infrastructure projects, but the Qin government's scale and ambition were unprecedented.
5. Administrative reforms: The Qin government implemented administrative reforms to establish a rigid bureaucratic system. It divided the empire into administrative districts, each governed by officials appointed by the emperor. Local officials were responsible for overseeing tax collection, public works, law enforcement, and the military. The previous governments had a more loosely organized administrative structure, with greater autonomy granted to local officials.
Overall, the Qin government represented a significant departure from previous governance in China, bringing centralization, legalism, standardized policies, infrastructure projects, and administrative reforms to a new level.