1. Dynasties

2. Flood problems led to learning flood control by building River Dykes, canals, & irrigation. Flood control apparently learned by mythical Emperor Yu the Great. China was ruled by a dynasty: a ruling family that passes control from one generation to the next. Some Dynasties last 8oo years, others 12 years. A dynasty is led by an Emperor: a single male ruler & its title is passes down hereditarily or in the family.

3. Kept power through Mandate of Heaven: gods/ ancestors support a just ruler but not allow the corrupt to hold power. The mandate of Heaven explains the rise of fall of dynasties & why they should be in charge, this is called the dynastic cycle. A lot of these ideas come from their early religion of Ancestor Worship. (family & friends who haves passed away) this also promotes the respect of elders.