A surviving court, higher rice sales and more schooling tell us different things. Follow who gained decisions, income or opportunities.
Choose a change and follow its effects.
A protectorate retains the court
- The emperor and court remain.
- French officials restrict political authority.
The throne can survive while the emperor loses the freedom to decide policy. Judge the powers he retains, not only his title.
Identify the decisions subject to French supervision; the legal label alone cannot show the full relationship.
Rice exports increase
- More production reaches overseas markets.
- Landlords, tenants and labourers have different claims on the proceeds.
More rice can be sold while cultivators keep little after rent, tax and debt. Compare the shares going to different groups.
Export totals measure trade, not how secure or prosperous individual households became.
A small educated elite grows
- New skills help administrative and professional work.
- Political ideas and networks can support criticism.
Skills useful for government work could also help people communicate criticism and organise for change.
Schooling reached a minority, and educated people could choose different responses.