n 140 BC Emperor Wudi took the throne. He wanted to create a stronger government. He took land from the lords, raised taxes, and placed the supply of grain under the control of the government. Under Wudi’s reign, Confucianism became China’s official government philosophy. Government Government officials were expected to practice Confucianism. Wudi even began a university to teach Confucian ideas. If a person passed an exam on Confucian teachings, he could get a good position in the government. However, not just anyone could take the test. The exams were only open to people who had been recommended for government service already. As a result, wealthy or in uential families continued to control the government.
