How did external alliances impact dynastic succession and stability?

External alliances often influenced dynastic succession and stability by providing military support, political legitimacy, and economic resources.

External alliances, particularly those formed through marriage, have historically played a significant role in shaping dynastic succession and stability. These alliances often brought with them military support, which could be crucial in times of internal strife or external threat. For instance, a weaker dynasty might seek an alliance with a more powerful one to bolster its military strength and deter potential challengers. This could help ensure a smooth succession and maintain stability within the realm.

Moreover, external alliances could lend political legitimacy to a dynasty, especially in its early stages or during times of crisis. An alliance with a well-established, respected dynasty could enhance the standing of a less established one, making it more acceptable to its subjects and less likely to face opposition. This could be particularly important during a succession, when the dynasty might be at its most vulnerable.

Economic resources are another important factor. Alliances could bring with them access to wealth, trade routes, or other economic advantages. These resources could be used to strengthen the dynasty's position, for example by funding military campaigns, building infrastructure, or providing for the welfare of its subjects. This could help ensure the dynasty's longevity and stability.

However, it's important to note that external alliances could also have negative impacts on dynastic succession and stability. For instance, they could lead to conflicts of interest, or even outright war, if the interests of the allied dynasties diverged. They could also create dependencies, with the weaker dynasty becoming reliant on the stronger one for support. This could undermine the weaker dynasty's autonomy and potentially destabilise it in the long term.

In conclusion, while external alliances could provide valuable support to a dynasty, they also came with potential risks. The impact of these alliances on dynastic succession and stability would therefore depend on a variety of factors, including the relative strength of the allied dynasties, the nature of the alliance, and the specific circumstances of the time.