How did the qin dynasty lose the mandate of heaven? a. through invasions by nomadic herdsmen the emperor's army couldn't defend against b. through natural disasters the government was unable to cope with c. through famine caused by many years of drought d. through uprisings caused by the harsh policies of legalism

The Qin dynasty lose the mandate of heaven through uprisings caused by the harsh policies of legalism.

Answer: Option D

Explanation:

The Mandate of Heaven has its origins during the Zhou Dynasty. It is an ancient concept whereby the emperor must be sufficiently virtuous as per the mandate to rule. In case he fails to meet the mandate, he must forfeit his right to rule.

As the Zhou Dynasty began losing its control and the warring states of China were united by Qin Shihuangdi. The Qin Dynasty lost the mandate quickly their rule was harsh and the policy of legalism was unpopular among the masses hence they faced uprisings which led to their fall.

A is the correct answer. The ruler is thought to always be in the right and with God on his side how could he ever fail? By failing to defend against the nomads, the emperor was proven to have lost the mandate of heaven.