Research On The Official Retirement System Of Ming Dynasty

The official retirement system is an important part of Chinese ancient politicalsystems, which plays an important role in the regeneration of bureaucracy and thenormal operation of the state apparatus. Through a long history of development, theofficial retirement system in Ming dynasty inherited its previous regime andestablished a new model with some features of its own.The official retirement system in Ming dynasty inherited from Song and Yuanand guided the Qing dynasty, its establishment, development and accomplishmentreflected the its own history of evolution. There are plentiful reasons for Ming’sofficials’ retirement, varying from resignation (age or health issues) to expelling(lackof capacities or distrusted by the emperor). The treatment for retired officials can bedivided into political treatment and economic treatment. Political treatment includeshierarchical promotion and nepotism, while the economic treatment covered taxesbreak and imperial special awards, etc. Due to different personal interests, familybackgrounds and local customs, retired officials also had various kinds of lives. Asidefrom composing works or farming, some of them also participate in local affairs,namely education or administration management.The official retirement system of Ming dynasty had a positive effect onstrengthening the government’s work efficiency and the recycle of bureaucracy.However, certain shortcomings can be found, such as long occupation in government,return for official position and low salary. Nevertheless, the official retirement systemof Ming dynasty could serve as a valuable lesson and experience for our moderninstitutional improvement.