economy1

The economic system in China rested on a free market and cash nexus. Landowners were able to buy and sell their lands. Farmers owned their land, rented it, or worked as laborers. Almost all other economic activity was also private. However, there were still many monopolies. In the Qing dynasty, salt was the most important commodity. The government's support of the economy helped the situation, and there were few restrictions on trade with the exception with foreigners. There were taxes on land, produce, and trade, but these were kept light. This system encouraged initiative and efficiency, and the population did not press too heavily on resources and the government was effective, it contributed to the creation of a vigorous economy. There was an agricultural revolution in the Qing in crops and various technical improvements spread with amazing speed from wherever they were introduced.

There was also an efficient use of manpower and animals. Natural fertilizer was used and plumbing systems were brought into the farms. Along with agricultural growth, industry and commerce also boomed. The chief products were consumer good: textiles, food products, porcelain, and items for home consumption. There was also a well-developed banking system resting on the market town and smaller cities. There was active overseas trade. This included thousands of ships that carried up to one thousand tons, with crews of over two hundred.

The decline of the Ming dynasty marked another important era of Chinese society called the Qing dynasty. In terms of status and prestige, the social hierarchy was divided into four levels, called the elite, which made up only 10 to 15 percent of the population. On top was the emperor and immediately under him were the imperial clansman. After them came the civil bureaucrats, and then the educated men, who had no official position. Under the elite were the farmers or peasants, who made up about 80 or 90 percent of the society. Artisans and merchants made up about 10 percent, and at the very bottom were prostitutes, actors, beggars and butchers. Women played a subordinate role towards men, in every level of society. For women at that time there was no way out. When they were young women or girls, they had to obey their fathers. As soon as they were married their husbands had control over them, and when they were old they were supposed to obey their sons. The events of the 19th century transformed Chinese society. These events gave social standing and influence to those people who had always been weak and voiceless, the lower castes. Merchants who had always been low in status now gained wealth and respect, because trade became important. Chinese agents who assisted foreign merchants and learned foreign languages and business practices.