Becoming China: Mental and Physical Boundaries

Question 1

What is Confucianism?

Answer 1

A humanist philosophy which places emphasis on morality, virtues and social order

Question 2

What is the ‘Mandate of Heaven’?

Answer 2

A Chinese political and religious doctrine used since ancient times to justify the rule of the King or Emperor of China.

Question 3

Does the ‘Mandate of Heaven’ require noble birth?

Answer 3

No, The Mandate of Heaven does not require a legitimate ruler to be of noble birth, depending instead on the just and able performance of the rulers and their heirs (E.g Han & Ming Dynasties)3

Question 4

What is the Western ‘Divine Right of Kings’ ideal?

Answer 4

The belief that authority is derived from the will of God and attempts to change this are unjust

Question 5

What was the 1842 Treaty of Nanjing?

Answer 5

A peace treaty which ended the First Opium War between the United Kingdom and the Qing dynasty of China. Imposed British commercial dominance

Question 6

When year was the Republic of China established?

Answer 6

1912