How was the Chinese government organized under the Tang and Song Dynasties?

Under the Tang and Song Dynasties, the Chinese government was characterized by a centralized bureaucracy that emphasized meritocracy through the civil service examination system. The Tang Dynasty expanded and formalized this system, allowing for the recruitment of officials based on their scholarly achievements rather than aristocratic birth. The Song Dynasty continued this trend, further enhancing the role of scholar-officials and promoting economic and cultural developments. Both dynasties maintained a hierarchical structure with the emperor at the top, supported by various ministries responsible for different aspects of governance, such as finance, military, and justice.