1. Merit • Merit – Merit is a term used to describe the attainment of position or status through hard-work or sacrifice, something earned and not given. Governmental positions in ancient China were reserved for the most elite scholars, whose trials would begin as soon as they could speak. Their positions were earned through diligence, intelligence, and countless hours of studying, and they were rewarded for their efforts with important jobs of governance. With the decision to end the Treasure Voyages upon the death of the Yongle Emperor, we could see that culmination of the conflict between the Confucian scholars who earned their jobs through merit, and those of the eunuchs, who were granted special privilege and status because of personal relationships with the emperor.