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The short- and long-run effect of affirmative action: evidence from Imperial China

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  • Xue, Melanie
  • Zhang, Boxiao

Abstract

We study the short- and long-term effects of affirmative action policies in the context of China. During imperial China, official positions were awarded to the most academically talented individuals through a multi-stage examination process administered by the central government. In 1712, a reform was implemented to address disparities in exam performance, aiming to equalize acceptance rates across provinces and increase representation from underrepresented regions. Using a unique dataset, we analyze career outcomes and find that more candidates from underrepresented provinces secured positions without compromising their performance after the reform. However, sub-provincial units showed different trends. Although the reform ended in 1905, the gap between underrepresented provinces and others widened again, but some effects of the reform remained. Moreover, the intervention had spillover effects, extending its impact to secondary education.

Suggested Citation

  • Xue, Melanie & Zhang, Boxiao, 2025. "The short- and long-run effect of affirmative action: evidence from Imperial China," Economic History Working Papers 128023, London School of Economics and Political Science, Department of Economic History.
    • Handle: RePEc:ehl:wpaper:128023
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    affirmative action; education; inequality; China;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • H75 - Public Economics - - State and Local Government; Intergovernmental Relations - - - State and Local Government: Health, Education, and Welfare
    • I28 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Government Policy
    • J71 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Discrimination - - - Hiring and Firing
    • N40 - Economic History - - Government, War, Law, International Relations, and Regulation - - - General, International, or Comparative

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