Examination System
Shengzong was also the one to institutionalize state examinations for the selection of Chinese officials, which was done in 988, based on models used by the Tang Dynasty, which had fallen in 907, and the Song Dynasty, which existed concurrently with the Liao. Despite the importance of the return of the examination system, it initially only opened the road for very small numbers, as only three to five were awarded initially, and the number only increased to between thirty and 130 candidates passed the triennial exams by 1014.
Most jinshi degree winners were not even appointed to office as Khitan aristocrats were far more likely to receive appointments. Khitan people receiving appointments were specifically through patronage as they were expressly prohibited from sitting the examinations.
Read more about this topic: Emperor Shengzong Of Liao
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