In ancient times, how did the imperial court help the victims in case of natural disasters?

Some natural disasters often occurred in ancient society, because at that time, technology was not as developed as it is now, and some disasters could be prevented in advance. Therefore, when natural disasters come, people are most affected, many people can't eat, and eventually they go hungry everywhere. How did the ancient court help the victims?

Many times, in the face of disasters, the emperor will not sit idly by. After all, the people are the foundation of state rule, and water can carry a boat and overturn it. If the refugees are not appeased, a series of unrest will follow. Therefore, when natural disasters occur, people will reduce or exempt taxes, give people some money or food, and properly resettle some homeless refugees. Only by solving these problems can we ensure that the people will not rebel. After all, many peasant uprisings in history originated from a certain nature.

Of course, many times, the state will open official warehouses to release grain. After all, in a disaster year, the imperial court usually collects some food. The purpose is to open warehouses for disaster relief when necessary, which is a great benefit for the people. Of course, there is another way, that is, reducing taxes and fees, which is also the way that rulers of past dynasties will use. In other cases, rulers will think that if they do something wrong, they will be punished by God. Sometimes they will go to worship heaven, or they will send a letter to themselves for their crimes.

Generally speaking, no matter which way, if there is a disaster in ancient times, the court will try its best to alleviate the possible social contradictions or class contradictions, and try its best to appease the lives of ordinary people to ensure the stability of its rule.