The Dynastic Cycle By Olivia V.

Mandate of Heaven If you wanted to rule in Ancient China you would have to get the Gods approval. This is called the Mandate of Heaven.

Receiving the Mandate of Heaven There was no objective way to prove that you had received a mandate from heaven. If you were from a wealthy or politically connected family you were more likely to receive a mandate from heaven. You would have to assume power or take control of the government and then tell people you had a mandate from heaven.

New Dynasty is Successful The new dynasty takes over and Restores peace Supports all of its people Builds infrastructure Fights against its enemies Creates technologies

New Dynasty Considered to have Mandate of Heaven Once the new dynasty is successful it is considered to have demonstrated that it has the Mandate of Heaven Dynasty often lasts many generations

After Time New Dynasty Fades New dynasty begins to decline The rulers become corrupt The rulers often raise taxes The people become dissatisfied with the dynasty

Disaster and Trouble Occurs Floods Famine Invasion Peasants revolt

Dynasty Loses Mandate of Heaven The people consider rebellion to be justified because it is obvious that the Gods are unhappy with the dynasty. The dynasty in power loses its Mandate of Heaven

New Dynasty Takes Over New dynasty takes over by revolt or fighting Cycle begins again