Imperial Examination

The Imperial Examination was a civil service test established in ancient China to select government officials. It began in the Sui Dynasty (581-618 AD) and became formalized in the Tang and Song Dynasties. The exam focused on Confucian texts, literature, and philosophy, aiming to identify talented individuals regardless of their social background. Success in these rigorous exams could lead to prestigious government positions, shaping the bureaucracy of imperial China. This system promoted meritocracy and influenced education and governance in the region for centuries, lasting until the early 20th century.