Question

what was the nature of the ming restoration of traditional chinese values

Answer 1

Ming returned to use of neo-Confucian philosophy as basis of culture; restored position of scholar-gentry; reinstituted examination system as basis of civil service. Early emperors attempted to curtail power of scholar-gentry; abolished position of chief minister; restricted imperial marriage to commoner families to reduce opportunity for court intrigue; number of eunuchs limited; potential rivals to succession exiled to provinces; greatest economic reform was Zenghe voyages to distant markets.
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