Which dynasty is known for creating a quasi-feudal system?

• A. Zhou
• B. Qin
• C. Han
• D. Wei

Answer: (A)

The Zhou dynasty is renowned for establishing a quasi-feudal system, which was a significant development in ancient Chinese governance and social structure. This system emerged during the Western Zhou period (c. 1046–771 BCE) and involved the allocation of land in exchange for loyalty and military service. The Zhou kings granted large tracts of land to nobles and lords, who were responsible for managing these lands and providing military support to the king. This also established a hierarchy in which the king was at the top, followed by various levels of nobility.

This feudal arrangement not only facilitated the local governance of vast territories but also fostered a sense of loyalty between the rulers and their vassals. As a part of this system, the lords often had the autonomy to govern their lands as they saw fit, provided they remained loyal to the Zhou king. This relationship created a network of mutual obligations that defined social and political life during the period.

In contrast, the Qin dynasty (which followed the Zhou) is characterized by its centralized rule and legalistic governance, effectively dismantling the feudal structures established by the Zhou. The Han dynasty built upon the Qin's centralized bureaucracy and moved away from feudalism towards a system based more on merit and