🤯 Did You Know (click to read)
Iron ploughs in Eastern Zhou sites show evidence of standardized casting and repair practices.
Iron implements became more prevalent during the Eastern Zhou, replacing older wooden and bronze tools. Archaeological evidence indicates iron ploughshares allowed deeper tilling and cultivation of previously marginal lands. Surplus food supported population growth and urbanization. States that encouraged iron use gained military advantage through larger standing armies. Distribution of iron tools was sometimes regulated by local authorities. Metallurgical knowledge spread via workshops. Agricultural productivity directly influenced political stability and fiscal revenue. Technological diffusion enhanced economic resilience.
💥 Impact (click to read)
Iron ploughs increased per-acre yield, stabilizing food supply for towns and cities. Greater output supported taxation and military provisioning. States adopting iron outperformed rivals agriculturally. Workshop specialization emerged, producing tools at scale. Technological innovation became a measure of state competence. Productivity shaped administrative capability.
Farmers benefited from expanded arable land and reduced labor intensity. Communities experienced demographic growth. Resource allocation shifted toward maintenance and repair of iron implements. Social mobility increased as agricultural surplus allowed trade participation. The tool reshaped both economy and hierarchy. Metal became agent of transformation.
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