The Downfall of the Ming Dynasty: Corruption, Rebellion, and Foreign Invasions

1. To what 2 things did the despotism of the Ming dynasty lead?

a. Corruption and rebellion

2. What did the Ming rebuild to repel invaders?

a. The Great Wall

3. What 2 factors led to the fall of the Ming dynasty in 1644?

a. Internal protests and foreign invasions

Final answer:

The despotism of the Ming dynasty resulted in corruption and rebellion. The Ming rebuilt the Great Wall to repel invaders. However, internal protests and foreign Manchu invasions culminated in the fall of the Ming dynasty in 1644.

Explanation:

The despotism of the Ming dynasty led primarily to two negative outcomes: corruption and rebellion. Under increasing strain from fiscal mismanagement, high taxes imposed to support defenses against Mongol and Manchu threats, and the misapplication of funds by corrupt officials, the populace began to revolt, signaling the weakening of the Ming state's authority.

To protect their domain, especially against the northern invasions, the Ming dynasty undertook the significant task of rebuilding the Great Wall. However, while the Great Wall was an impressive fortification, it alone was insufficient to bolster the failing dynasty.

It was predominantly the internal strife—manifested as protests and rebellion within China—coupled with the external pressures of foreign invasions, particularly by the Manchus, that led to the collapse of the Ming dynasty in 1644, giving way to the Qing dynasty.

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