Justification of Political Power Flashcards
(11 cards)
How did Mesopotamian rulers justify their power?
Gilgamesh was part god, kings claimed they could intercede with gods, and taxes were seen as both practical and religious offerings.
What made Egyptian pharaohs unique as rulers?
They were considered full gods—Horus in life, Osiris in death—and maintained ma’at, the balance of the universe.
How did Hindu India justify Brahmin rule?
Brahmin were seen as born to rule due to good karma from past lives; fulfilling dharma justified their authority.
What is the Mandate of Heaven in ancient China?
It was the idea that heaven grants the right to rule; disasters were signs the ruler lost that right and could be replaced.
How did Legalism and Confucianism justify political power differently in China?
Legalism emphasized strict rulers and harsh laws because humans were seen as bad. Confucianism emphasized moral leadership and respect-based order.
How did Greek hoplite warfare lead to democracy in Athens?
It empowered poor men to fight in phalanxes, weakening noble dominance and justifying rule by the demos (adult male citizens).
What key idea justified power in the Roman Republic?
Power came from the people through elections, not kings; rulers needed to be elected yearly to represent the citizens.
How did Octavian (Augustus) justify his rule during the Roman Empire?
He claimed his power was freely given by the Senate, though in reality he seized it through civil war and violence.
How did Islamic rulers justify their authority?
They claimed authority through their connection to Muhammad; Sunni and Shi’a disagreed on who had the rightful connection.
What religious justification did Pope Urban II give for the Crusades?
He claimed conquering Muslim lands was God’s will and promised spiritual rewards for those who joined the fight.
What limited the king’s power in the Empire of Mali?
The king was chosen by the Gbara Assembly and bound by the Kouroukan Fouga, making him accountable to law and assembly.
