Question

Why did the Tang Dynasty face difficulties toward the end of its reign? pick one

The economy struggled as China became unable to protect its long-distance trade routes.
The government suffered as friends were placed in official positions instead of skilled workers.
The economy struggled as peasants became unable to pay their increasingly higher taxes.
The government suffered as the line of succession became unclear after Gaozong’s death.

Answer 1

The economy struggled as peasants became unable to pay their increasingly higher taxes.

Explanation: Prolonged wars (especially the An Lushan Rebellion), corruption, and large tax-exempt estates concentrated land and wealth, forcing heavier levies on smallholders. Growing peasant hardship and tax resistance sparked major uprisings (e.g., Huang Chao) that fatally weakened Tang authority.