1. The Dynastic Cycle
2/15/11
World History

2. What is the dynastic cycle?
In China, dynasties rise and fall in a pattern that is very similar.
The pattern is called the dynastic cycle.

3. Step 1 The new dynasty is considered to have the Mandate of Heaven.
The Mandate of heaven basically means that the emperor has divine permission to rule the world.

4. Step 2 The Dynasty declines and the leaders become corrupt.
This can happen to short lived dynasties and longer ones as well.

5. Step 3 Disasters such as floods, famines, and invasions take place.
China is always concerned with invaders, which is why the Great Wall was built.

6. Step 4
Amidst corruption and disaster, people believe the dynasty has lost the Mandate of Heaven.
Once this happens, its difficult to win back respect of the people.

7. Step 5 Dynasty is overthrown through rebellion.
This is how China has different dynasties from different families.

8. Step 6 New dynasty takes over and restores order and peace to China.
Eventually will receive Mandate of Heaven and the process starts over.