Why did the Chinese emperors have thousands of concubines, while the Western emperors had only one wife?

 The practice of having multiple wives or concubines in China, particularly among Chinese emperors, has deep historical roots and was influenced by cultural, social, and political factors. This practice contrasts with the monogamous tradition more commonly found in Western cultures. It's important to note that the practice of having multiple wives or concubines was not universal among all Chinese emperors, and there were variations across different dynasties and rulers.

Key factors contributing to the tradition of multiple wives and concubines in Chinese imperial history include:

1. **Dynastic Succession:**

   - Ensuring the continuation of the imperial bloodline was a primary concern for Chinese emperors. Having multiple wives and concubines increased the likelihood of producing male heirs, which was crucial for securing the succession of the dynasty.

2. **Political Alliances:**

   - Marriages and relationships with noble families and influential figures were often used as a means of establishing and maintaining political alliances. Emperors would take wives or concubines from various families to strengthen connections and secure loyalty.

3. **Symbol of Power and Wealth:**

   - The number of wives and concubines an emperor had was sometimes seen as a symbol of his power and wealth. A large harem was considered an indication of the emperor's ability to sustain and support a vast household.

4. **Cultural and Philosophical Influences:**

   - Confucianism, a prominent philosophical and ethical system in China, emphasized the importance of family and hierarchy. The Confucian concept of filial piety encouraged the emperor to produce male heirs to carry on the family line and fulfill ancestral duties.

5. **Social Structure:**

   - The Chinese imperial court was organized around a hierarchical structure, and the imperial harem was an integral part of this system. Different ranks and titles were assigned to wives and concubines based on factors such as seniority and the birth of male heirs.

In contrast, the Western tradition, influenced by various historical, religious, and cultural factors, generally favored monogamous marriages. While there were exceptions in European history, such as instances of kings or nobles having mistresses, the practice of maintaining large harems was not a common feature in Western monarchies.

It's essential to recognize that practices related to marriage and the imperial court varied across different dynasties and periods in Chinese history. The reasons for having multiple wives or concubines were multifaceted and rooted in a combination of political, cultural, and social considerations.