The "Mandate of Heaven" is an ancient Chinese philosophical concept that justifies the rule of a dynasty. It suggests that heaven grants emperors the right to govern based on their ability to provide good governance and maintain harmony. If a ruler becomes corrupt or fails to fulfill their duties, they can lose this mandate, leading to their downfall. This idea was crucial in the rise and fall of various dynasties in Chinese history, such as the Zhou Dynasty and the Ming Dynasty. It also influenced the perception of leadership and governance in Confucianism, emphasizing moral integrity and responsibility.