Mandate of Heaven

Anyone with an elementary grasp of Chinese history should feel the warm embrace of familiarity upon reading the AP story on the leadership change in the "People's Republic." Here's what I mean:

Despite repeated orders from Beijing, local officials have balked at orders to cancel major construction and other big spending projects - austerity moves that could cost local jobs and reduce opportunities to line their pockets. Hu and Wen reportedly have been forced to visit Shanghai and other areas to compel obedience in person.

Imperial authority wanes, local warlords wax. Can the dynasty hold on?