In the year 960 A.D., ZhaoKuangyin launched the Chenqiao Mutiny, thereby establishing the Song Dyirasty (960-1279). Aiming to forestall any possible coup by military officials, he set the tone of state policy as "regarding literary arts as superior to military skills." All military affairs were presided over by civil officials. The imperial examination at this stage had two grades, one was carried out respectively by the states; the other one was a provincial exam hold by the Bcrard of Rites.
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