Tang rulers recognized the failures and successes of previous dynasties
and used that to its advantage. It had a more mature and complex
government that followed a system of bureaucracy (government by
officials). From the beginning, the dynasty's economic structure
was designed to place agriculture before industry. Efficient use
of the land and civilians were just two of the many new systems
that were created. All these changes demanded an increase in officials
and junior clerks who helped officials administrate the emperor's
workers. The activities of the people were brought closer into the
eyes of the officials and therefore enabled a closer 'relationship'
between the people and the government.
Those who worked under honest, scrupulous officials who served
their emperor well often succeeded in completing their projects.
However, there were official who merely mulled over their own personal
interests and took advantage of their status and wealth. Even the
sons or their clients benefited from their positions.
