The social structure of ancient China evolved over several centuries, likely solidifying sometime in either the second or third century A.D. The social structure was very rigid; there was virtually no possibility of upward (or even downward) mobility. In other words, if your father was a farmer, chances were you were going to be a farmer, too. The genders were not equal in ancient Chinese society either; women were largely domestic creatures, and even aristocratic women were not allowed to attend school. This social structure was reinforced by the revered Chinese thinker, Confucius, who claimed that social structure and rigid order was important if one wanted a peaceful kingdom and a happy society.
It should be mentioned that the one occupation which existed outside the realm of ancient Chinese social structure was the emperor and the royal family. The emperor was often considered ordained by god in ancient Chinese society and, therefore, he did not have to answer to any humans on earth. He expected complete obedience from his subjects and had total control over military affairs.
