Deep Dive
What was the primary purpose of the Equal Field System (均田制) implemented by the Northern Wei Dynasty?
The primary purpose of the Equal Field System was to manage and regulate land distribution among the populace, ensuring that state-owned land was allocated fairly to households. This system aimed to stabilize agricultural production, increase state revenue through taxation, and prevent the concentration of land in the hands of powerful families or clans.
How did the Equal Field System differ from previous land distribution systems like the Land Occupation Law (占田法)?
The Equal Field System differed from the Land Occupation Law in that it was more focused on state control and redistribution of land. While the Land Occupation Law allowed individuals to claim land based on their status, the Equal Field System mandated the allocation of specific amounts of land to households, with the requirement to return the land after a certain period. This system was designed to prevent land monopolies and ensure equitable access to agricultural resources.
What role did the Three Chiefs System (三长制) play in the implementation of the Equal Field System?
The Three Chiefs System was a local administrative structure that helped the Northern Wei government implement the Equal Field System. It involved appointing local leaders (village, neighborhood, and party chiefs) to oversee land distribution, tax collection, and population registration. This system allowed the state to exert greater control over rural communities and ensure compliance with the land redistribution policies.
Why was the Equal Field System considered a response to the economic and social changes in Northern China during the 5th century?
The Equal Field System was a response to the economic and social changes in Northern China, particularly the large-scale migration and agricultural development that occurred during the 5th century. The system aimed to integrate newly formed rural communities into the state structure, prevent the rise of powerful local clans, and ensure that the state could collect taxes and maintain social order in a rapidly changing society.
What were the key features of the land allocation under the Equal Field System?
Under the Equal Field System, land was allocated based on household size and labor capacity. Adult males received 40 mu of arable land (露田), while adult females received 20 mu. Additionally, households were granted 20 mu of mulberry land (桑田) for planting trees and other crops. The arable land had to be returned to the state after the farmer retired or died, while the mulberry land could be retained permanently. This system aimed to balance state control with household self-sufficiency.
- 均田制成立于485年，结束于780年，实施约300年
- 均田制并非在全国实施，而是针对国营农场
- 与西晋占田法比较，均田制并非恢复汉代制度，而是基于当时华北农村的实际情况和国家与人民之间新的权力关系
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