How did Song Emperors lessen the power of the hereditary aristocracy?
A) They sent them to the north to form a border guard against the nomadic tribes.
B) They confiscated their estates if they did not swear loyalty directly to the emperor.
C) They granted more power in the military and bureaucracy to the palace eunuchs.
D) They increased the number and power of scholar-officials in the government bureaucracy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Song Emperors increased the number and power of the scholar-officials in the government bureaucracy to lessen the power of the hereditary aristocracy. This was done by instituting civil service examinations to recruit talented individuals and promote them based on merit rather than birthright. This helped to create a more efficient and merit-based government system.

How Did Song Emperors Lessen the Power of the Hereditary