In any dynasty, when a pretentious sect threatens its rule, it will become the target of suppression. Just look at how many people, whether in ancient times or modern times, use the name of Taoism to change their power. Well, if you just cultivate your moral character, no one will interfere with you.
The case of Confucius’ execution of Shaozhengmao recorded in history is from the records of Xunzi Youzu Chapter. It was later recorded in Lu Shi Chun Qiu, Shuo Yuan, Confucius Family Sayings, It is recorded in "Historical Records: The Family of Confucius" and other books. The reason why Confucius said is: "There are five evil things in people, and stealing is not the only one. The first is that the heart is bold and dangerous, the second is that the action is bold and firm, and the third is that the words are false. As for debate, the fourth is to remember the ugly and be good at it, and the fifth is to follow the wrong and be good. If one of these five is included in a person, he will not be immune to the punishment of a gentleman, but if he has both, he will be good." And Shaozhengmao also recruited many disciples, so that "the gate of Confucius is full of three and empty of three." This shows how powerful his influence is. This threatens the power of the ruling class. How can it survive?
And there are things in Taoism that really scare the rulers, so they try their best to suppress and persecute them. Religions have their essence and dross. But the essence of Taoism is indeed too powerful. For example, the Manchus in the Qing Dynasty also believed in Feng Shui. Those Manchus seemed to have a deep understanding of Feng Shui. During this period, the Qing Dynasty suppressed the Han people from believing in Taoism and tampered with the Sikuquanshu. At the same time, the Manchus were not allowed to do business and could only read books. The books on martial arts and martial arts are all formulated by the emperor. I think the books formulated contain Feng Shui works, so that one's own people can become stronger with the power of Feng Shui.
The fundamental reason why Taoism continues to flourish is that it truly interprets the laws of nature and contributes to mankind. The powerful application of Feng Shui is only an extended application of Taoist school of thought, which shows the power of Taoism. The profound and profound Feng Shui techniques and the Book of Changes are the products of Taoism. Spiritual charms, magic spells, Feng Shui mascots, and even Maoshan spells are all powerful in helping people. The energy that Taoism relies on is because of its magical effect, so it is considered to be divine. Ghost help. After various dynasties in ancient times used this technique, they were well aware of its magical ability to conquer the heaven and earth, and of course they were afraid of others using this technique. The rulers of the Qing Dynasty knew that the science of Feng Shui could not be lost among the people, so they engaged in the despicable act of tampering with books, hoping to confuse the art of Feng Shui and prevent people from applying it.
Of course, there is a more important point. Taoism is not popular. In addition to external reasons, there are also internal factors. Taoism advocates "the law of nature", and of course it will not be promoted everywhere like other religions.