The Chinese Empire began in the third century B.C. and endured many vicissitudes under myriad dynasties, none of which lasted for more than four centuries. After several difficult periods, China fell to the Mongols in the thirteenth century. One hundred years later, the Ming restored Chinese dominance for three centuries. Then another foreign dynasty, the Qing, ruled for several centuries into the twentieth. The same pattern is found on every continent or subcontinent.
National pride is always more fervent in successful times.
However, power can have rather unusual origins. The wise decisions and shrewd political acts of a few leaders or small groups often produce enduring states. Even cruel regimes can sometimes succeed in introducing prosperous periods. The rise to political power frequently requires violence, which is not always physical. Favorable external circumstances can also help maintain stability, if only temporarily.