Final answer:
Tang rulers extended control over Chinese people by creating a culturally rich capital that attracted and centralized aristocrats, reinforcing the civil service examinations for bureaucracy entry while maintaining aristocratic dominance, and through military campaigns that expanded their territory.
Step-by-step explanation:
To extend their control over the Chinese people, the Tang rulers utilized a variety of strategies. They established an attractive and culturally rich court in Chang'an that drew in the aristocratic elite, creating a centralized government with these influential figures eager to serve. By leaving their estates to be managed by others, these aristocrats depended on the court for their status, thus reinforcing the power of the Tang rulers.
The civil service examinations system was expanded by the Tang Dynasty, especially under Empress Wu, to recruit talented individuals into the bureaucracy. However, despite this system, aristocratic families continued to hold significant power since high-ranking positions often required connections with the imperial family or other influential figures.
Following the An Lushan Rebellion, the Tang government reshuffled its economic approach. They moved away from the equal-field system, with more land falling into private hands. The state developed reliance on commercial taxes and currency-based assessments according to household wealth. This shift allowed for increased commercial freedom as the central government's strict market regulations became unenforceable.
Ultimately, military campaigns played a significant role in consolidating Tang control, with the empire extending its reach through a large professional army equipped with aristocratic cavalry and extensive peasant infantry, allowing Tang China to become a formidable empire of its age.