Question

in what way did rivals of the zhou ruling class take over the authority of governing?
○ by disbanding the army
○ by increasing trade on salt and iron
○ by regulating the local economies
○ by eliminating local taxes

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• "By disbanding the army" is illogical for taking over governance as disbanding the army would weaken one's power, not help in seizing authority.
• "By increasing trade on salt and iron": In the context of the Zhou period (and later periods like Han, but relevant to power struggles), controlling or increasing trade in vital commodities like salt and iron was a way to gain economic power, which could translate to political power to challenge the ruling class.
• "By regulating the local economies" is too vague and not a typical way rivals would take over (regulating is more of a governing action, not a takeover method).
• "By eliminating local taxes" would reduce revenue and weaken one's own power base, not a viable takeover method.

So the most logical option is the one about increasing trade on salt and iron.

Answer:

By increasing trade on salt and iron (the option text for the corresponding choice, e.g., if it's the second option: B. By increasing trade on salt and iron)