1. The Dynastic Cycle
By Olivia V.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. Disaster and Trouble Occurs
Floods
Famine
Invasion
Peasants revolt

8. 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

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