20. In 2-3 sentences, define the term “matriarchy” and explain how China changed from a matriarchy to a patriarchy due to Confucian teachings.

Answer 1

Matriarchy refers to a social system in which women hold primary power and are the main authority figures in roles of political leadership, moral authority, and property control. In China, the transition from matriarchy to patriarchy was significantly influenced by Confucian teachings, which emphasized male authority and familial hierarchy, positioning men as heads of households and relegating women to subordinate roles, thereby reshaping societal norms to favor paternal lineage and control. This shift led to the institutionalization of gender roles that reinforced male dominance across various aspects of life.