#230 - Ming 19: A Futile & Stupid Barrier
The History of China
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The Ming Military
Mote: Military system underwent no substantial structural changes during the changha and hong ja rains, despite a growing awareness of its failings. Soldiers and commanders were rewarded and ranked based on their performance in battle, that is to say, either the capture of enemies or much more commond convenient, taking their heads. Mote writes that system had many critics, especially confucian pacifist minded statesmen, who recognized it as an encouragement to victimize the innocent.
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