AP World History Practice Exam 2025 – The Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

The governance of the Han Dynasty in China was primarily influenced by Confucianism, which emphasized the importance of hierarchical relationships, moral integrity, and social harmony. Confucian ideals promoted the idea that rulers should be virtuous and lead by example, which underpinned the political framework of the Han Dynasty. The Han emperors adopted these principles, which encouraged the promotion of educated officials selected through examinations based on Confucian texts, thereby establishing a meritocratic bureaucracy.

This philosophical approach was significant because it shaped the social structure and political practices of the dynasty, fostering stability and order within society. Confucianism's focus on filial piety and respect for authority helped legitimize the ruling class's power and created a cohesive social environment where loyalty and duty to family and state were highly valued.

The other philosophical concepts had varying degrees of influence but did not shape Han governance to the same extent. Legalism, for instance, focused on strict laws and harsh punishments, which were more prevalent during the Qin Dynasty. Daoism provided a more individualistic and mystical approach to life, emphasizing harmony with nature rather than societal governance. Buddhism, while an important spiritual tradition, gained prominence in later periods and did not significantly affect the political structure of the Han Dynasty