Dynastic cycle - Definition and Overview

According to Chinese political theory, every dynasty goes through the so-called dynastic cycle:

1. A new ruler unites China and founds a new dynasty.
2. China, under the new dynasty, achieves prosperity and a new golden age.
3. The royal family of the dynasty begins to decay, corruption becomes rampant in the imperial court, and the empire begins to enter decline and instability.
4. The dynasty loses the Mandate of Heaven, their legitimacy to rule, and is overthrown by a rebellion. The Mandate of Heaven is then passed to the next dynasty.

See also

• History of China