<span>The answer is C) Select trustworthy leaders who will not exploit tax funds for personal benefit.
A significant factor leading to the downfall of both the Han Dynasty and the Gupta Empire was the corruption of officials, who squandered resources and imposed higher taxes on ordinary citizens. Hence, it is crucial to elect leaders who possess integrity.</span>
Question 1:
The geographical positioning of Korea has significantly influenced its historical relationship with China. Due to China's closeness to Korea, the two cultures have significantly impacted one another, and considerable trade has thrived in this region. However, China's consistent governance and large population historically have given it a significant edge in military matters. Additionally, Japan's proximity to both nations has posed a shared threat that frequently prompted alliances.
Throughout the Ming dynasty, relations between the two nations were chiefly amicable and intimate, grounded in their mutual Confucian beliefs and their common heritage from Mongolian rule.
Question 2:
Tokugawa Ieyasu was the inaugural shogun and founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate in Japan. The shogunate governed Japan from 1600 until the Meiji Restoration in 1868. Ieyasu came to power in 1600 and ruled until his death in 1616. At the time Tokugawa Ieyasu ascended to power in 1600, around 20% of Japan was controlled by himself or related clans.
