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Which factors led the Ming dynasty to prosper and then collapse? Use simple words

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The Ming dynasty (1368-1644) experienced both prosperity and eventual collapse due to several key factors:

Factors Leading to Prosperity:

  1. Strong Leadership: The early Ming emperors were effective leaders who made good decisions for the country.

  2. Economic Growth: There was an increase in farming and trade. New crops from the Americas, like sweet potatoes and maize, helped improve food supply.

  3. Arts and Culture Flourished: The Ming period is known for beautiful art, pottery, and literature, which made the culture thrive.

  4. Building Infrastructure: The Ming government built roads and canals that improved travel and trade within the empire.

  5. Expansion of Territory: The Ming dynasty expanded its borders and strengthened its military, which increased security and access to more resources.

Factors Leading to Collapse:

  1. Corruption: Over time, government officials became corrupt, stealing money and resources from the people and weakening the government.

  2. Heavy Taxes: To fund wars and maintain power, the government raised taxes, which put a heavy burden on farmers and the poor.

  3. Natural Disasters: Floods, droughts, and famines occurred, which harmed agriculture and led to food shortages.

  4. Rebellions: Discontent from the people grew due to high taxes and suffering, leading to uprisings, like the one led by Li Zicheng.

  5. Invasion: In the 1640s, the Manchu people from the north invaded China, and the weakened Ming dynasty could not defend itself effectively.

These factors combined resulted in the decline and eventual fall of the Ming dynasty.