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The Shig Dynasty : The Success Of The Ming Dynasty

Decent Essays

The Ming Dynasty is considered to be the greatest time of social stability and government order in the world, but that is the final result of the changes made during the Dynasty. This paper argues that although it is common to praise the Ming Dynasty for its successes and advancements, nevertheless it was not always successful in the beginning because the Ming Dynasty went through many changes in laws and regulations to achieve a strong government and lasting society. The edicts that were set to help restrain people from evil and put forth ordinances helped to shape future rulers of the Ming Dynasty. In addition, Testamentary edicts served to remind future generations on creating a successful ruling period that would last. The Hongwu Emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang, is seen as the most powerful Emperor of the dynasty, but he was not simply born powerful. He was born into a poor family who begged constantly for basic necessities such as food and water. Later in life, Zhu joined a rebellion army and became a capable General. He went through great lengths to be the first at the Emperor's throne of the Ming Dynasty. To make sure the Ming Dynasty would stay in order, Zhu always reminded his citizens and officials to stay away from evil or evil deeds. In his Imperial Edict, Zhu writes to his citizens and military officials "I have told you to refrain from evil. Doing so would enable you to bring glory to your ancestors, your wives and children and yourselves" (Zhu, "An Imperial Edict..."

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