Attributing China’s stability under Emperor Xuanzong to one singular factor is an oversimplification, as multiple factors contributed to his long and prosperous reign. However, several potential key contributors stand out:

Effective Governance:

• Meritocratic bureaucracy: Xuanzong established a robust system of selecting officials based on merit rather than birthright, leading to competent and effective governance.
• Fiscal responsibility: He maintained fiscal stability through careful management of public finances, boosting economic prosperity.
• Legal reforms: Xuanzong implemented legal reforms that improved the justice system and strengthened social order.

Military Strength:

• Strong military: Xuanzong oversaw a period of military expansion, solidifying China’s borders and deterring external threats.
• Technological advancements: He championed innovations in military technology, including gunpowder and improved weaponry.
• Diplomatic engagement: Xuanzong pursued peaceful relations with neighboring states, contributing to regional stability.

Cultural Flourishing:

• Golden Age of Tang Dynasty: Xuanzong’s reign witnessed a cultural flourishing known as the “Golden Age of Tang Dynasty,” with advancements in poetry, literature, music, and art.
• Patronage of the arts: He actively supported and patronized artists and scholars, fostering a vibrant cultural atmosphere.
• Buddhist influence: Buddhism played a significant role in shaping Tang society, promoting philosophical discourse and artistic expression.

However, it’s important to consider additional factors:

• Rebellions and internal conflicts: Despite the general stability, Xuanzong’s later years saw rebellions and internal power struggles, foreshadowing the decline of the Tang Dynasty.
• Economic disparities: While the overall economy prospered, wealth distribution wasn’t entirely equitable, potentially fostering social unrest.
• Succession issues: The selection of Xuanzong’s successor contributed to the later internal conflicts that destabilized the empire.

Therefore, Xuanzong’s stability arose from a confluence of factors, including effective governance, military strength, cultural flourishing, and relative peace. While each element played a crucial role, understanding the interplay of these forces provides a more nuanced picture of his reign.