Transcript
Page 1: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Ancient Civilizations Project:Ancient Civilizations Project:ChinaChina

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China - GeographyChina - Geography

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Post-Neolithic Dynasties in Post-Neolithic Dynasties in ChinaChina

1.1. Shang Dynasty (1523-1028 BCE)Shang Dynasty (1523-1028 BCE)

2.2. Zhou Dynasty (1027-256 BCE)Zhou Dynasty (1027-256 BCE)

3.3. Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE)Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE)

4.4. Han Dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE)Han Dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE)

5.5. Six Dynasties (220-586)Six Dynasties (220-586)

6.6. Sui Dynasty (581-618)Sui Dynasty (581-618)

7.7. T’ang Dynasty (618-906)T’ang Dynasty (618-906)

8.8. Five Dynasties (907-960)Five Dynasties (907-960)

9.9. Song Dynasty (960-1279)Song Dynasty (960-1279)

10.10. Yuan (1280-1365) – Mongol ruleYuan (1280-1365) – Mongol rule

11.11. Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)

12.12. Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) – Manchu ruleQing Dynasty (1644-1912) – Manchu rule

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Neolithic China Neolithic China (3000-1500 (3000-1500 BCE)BCE)

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The Shang Dynasty The Shang Dynasty (1523-1028 (1523-1028 BCE)BCE)

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The Zhou Dynasty The Zhou Dynasty (1045 – 221 BCE)(1045 – 221 BCE)

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Qin Dynasty Qin Dynasty (221 – 206 BCE)(221 – 206 BCE)

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Han Dynasty Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE)(206 BCE – 220 CE)

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Sui Dynasty Sui Dynasty (581-618)(581-618)

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T’ang Dynasty T’ang Dynasty (618-906)(618-906)

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Sung Dynasty Sung Dynasty (960-1279)(960-1279)

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Yuan Dynasty (Mongol) Yuan Dynasty (Mongol) 1280-1280-13651365

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Ming Dynasty Ming Dynasty (1368-1644)(1368-1644)

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Qing Dynasty Qing Dynasty (1644-1912)(1644-1912)

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Origins – Chinese Origins – Chinese CivilizationCivilization

• Chinese civilization is the oldest continuous, homogenous Chinese civilization is the oldest continuous, homogenous major culture in the world today.major culture in the world today.

• Historians have usually dated the beginning of Chinese Historians have usually dated the beginning of Chinese civilization to the establishment of the civilization to the establishment of the Xia dynastyXia dynasty more than more than 4,000 years ago.4,000 years ago.

• Chinese civilization Chinese civilization was the lastwas the last of the great ancient of the great ancient civilizations to fully flower. By the time the Shang (1523-civilizations to fully flower. By the time the Shang (1523-1028 BCE) began to emerge, societies in Mesopotamia and 1028 BCE) began to emerge, societies in Mesopotamia and the Nile River Valley were advanced civilizations.the Nile River Valley were advanced civilizations.

• The earliest Chinese civilization was a river valley civilization The earliest Chinese civilization was a river valley civilization like Egypt, Mesopotamia, and India.like Egypt, Mesopotamia, and India.

• Chinese civilization was founded on the Chinese civilization was founded on the Huang He (Yellow) Huang He (Yellow) RiverRiver, the second largest river in China after the Yangtze., the second largest river in China after the Yangtze.

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Early Chinese Civilization:Early Chinese Civilization:The Huang He RiverThe Huang He River

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Part I. Belief / Value SystemPart I. Belief / Value System

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Belief Systems – China:Belief Systems – China:Religions and PhilosophiesReligions and Philosophies

• During the Shang, people began to believe in one god, During the Shang, people began to believe in one god, Shang DiShang Di, , who presided over the forces of nature.who presided over the forces of nature.

- As time went on, this concept of an “anthropomorphic” - As time went on, this concept of an “anthropomorphic” god god evolved into the more impersonal symbol of the evolved into the more impersonal symbol of the universe universe known as known as HeavenHeaven (Tian). (Tian).

• Two elements of “religious” worship in China:Two elements of “religious” worship in China:

- ancestor worship- ancestor worship

- worship of the spirits of nature- worship of the spirits of nature

• Unlike the West, Chinese “priests” did not enjoy a position of Unlike the West, Chinese “priests” did not enjoy a position of power in society.power in society.

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Belief Systems – China:Belief Systems – China:Religions and PhilosophiesReligions and Philosophies

• In China, unlike the West, there is no creation myth, no source of In China, unlike the West, there is no creation myth, no source of divine law outside of nature.divine law outside of nature.

- Nature contributed to divine ideas- Nature contributed to divine ideas

- Moral law was represented by human authority: the - Moral law was represented by human authority: the sage sage kings, the Zhou founders, and Confucius. kings, the Zhou founders, and Confucius.

• Religion has a practical rather than a mystical concern.Religion has a practical rather than a mystical concern.

• Philosophy has to do primarily with ethical conduct in actual life, Philosophy has to do primarily with ethical conduct in actual life, not with abstract questions as in the West. Exceptions:not with abstract questions as in the West. Exceptions:

- Buddhism from India- Buddhism from India

- Daoism- Daoism

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Belief Systems – China:Belief Systems – China:Religions and PhilosophiesReligions and Philosophies

• Most of China’s enduring religions / philosophies Most of China’s enduring religions / philosophies emerged by the end of the Zhou Dynasty known emerged by the end of the Zhou Dynasty known as theas the

““Hundred schools”Hundred schools” of ancient philosophy. of ancient philosophy.

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Belief Systems – China:Belief Systems – China:Religions and PhilosophiesReligions and Philosophies

• One of the earliest ideas was that the universe was divided One of the earliest ideas was that the universe was divided into two forces – Liang Yi:into two forces – Liang Yi:

- good and evil- good and evil

- light and dark- light and dark

- male and female- male and female

- (yin) and (yang)- (yin) and (yang)

• Life was a process of interaction between these opposing Life was a process of interaction between these opposing forces. Harmonious life is when there is a unity of forces. Harmonious life is when there is a unity of opposites.opposites.

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ConfucianismConfucianism

Confucianism / K’ung Fu-tzuConfucianism / K’ung Fu-tzu (551-479 BCE)(551-479 BCE)

• Wanted to find work as a political adviser in one of China’s principalities Wanted to find work as a political adviser in one of China’s principalities but never found a patron.but never found a patron.

• His philosophy is found in the His philosophy is found in the AnalectsAnalects in the form of conversations with in the form of conversations with his disciples his disciples

• There is no evidence that Confucius wrote anything at all (like Buddha, There is no evidence that Confucius wrote anything at all (like Buddha, Socrates and Jesus)Socrates and Jesus)

• His philosophy was political and ethical. Not very concerned with the His philosophy was political and ethical. Not very concerned with the cosmos.cosmos.

• Key principles:Key principles:

- to love others- to love others- to honor one’s parents (ancestor worship & filial piety)- to honor one’s parents (ancestor worship & filial piety)- to do what is right rather than what is advantageous- to do what is right rather than what is advantageous- to lead by example- to lead by example- to rule by moral example and not by force- to rule by moral example and not by force

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ConfucianismConfucianism

Confucius / K’ung Fu-tzuConfucius / K’ung Fu-tzu (551-479 BCE)(551-479 BCE)

Ancestor Worship & Filial PietyAncestor Worship & Filial Piety

• Interconnected and part of the same concept – respect for Interconnected and part of the same concept – respect for elders = one of the key components of Chinese culture.elders = one of the key components of Chinese culture.

• Ancestor worship – Chinese keep a small shrine in their Ancestor worship – Chinese keep a small shrine in their homes with tablets commemorating all the deceased homes with tablets commemorating all the deceased members of their family.members of their family.

- They also visit the cemeteries during the warmer - They also visit the cemeteries during the warmer months to months to visit the deceased and clean the graves. visit the deceased and clean the graves.

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ConfucianismConfucianism

Confucius / K’ung Fu-tzuConfucius / K’ung Fu-tzu (551-479 BCE)(551-479 BCE)

Filial Piety - Filial Piety - Respect for one's parents

• For Confucius, it is the starting point of humane behavior.For Confucius, it is the starting point of humane behavior.

• It is part of everyone’s Dao (Way).It is part of everyone’s Dao (Way).

• Filial Piety is at the root of the Filial Piety is at the root of the “Six Relationships,”“Six Relationships,” the basis the basis for all social connections between people:for all social connections between people:

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Belief Systems – China:Belief Systems – China:“The Six Relationships”“The Six Relationships”

ParentsParents HusbanHusbandd

ElderElder

BrotherBrotherRulerRuler TeacheTeache

rrFriend Friend

ChildreChildrenn

WifeWife YoungeYounger r

BrotherBrother

SubjectSubject StudenStudentt

FriendFriend

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Belief Systems – China:Belief Systems – China:“The Six Relationships”“The Six Relationships”

• In each relationship, the superior member has the In each relationship, the superior member has the duty of benevolence and care for the subordinate duty of benevolence and care for the subordinate member. member.

• The subordinate member has the duty of obedience.The subordinate member has the duty of obedience.

• The only equal relationship is between friends, unless The only equal relationship is between friends, unless one is older than the other.one is older than the other.

• Unlike in India, where social relations are absolute Unlike in India, where social relations are absolute (caste and karma determine everything) obedience (caste and karma determine everything) obedience in China DEPENDS on the fulfillment of the superior in China DEPENDS on the fulfillment of the superior person’s duty.person’s duty.

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Confucianism and Filial Confucianism and Filial PietyPiety

• What are some problems that What are some problems that may result from too much filial may result from too much filial piety?piety?

• Would you say that Confucianism is a Would you say that Confucianism is a “conservative,” “liberal,” or “radical” “conservative,” “liberal,” or “radical” belief system? belief system?

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ConfucianismConfucianism

Confucianism / K’ung Fu-tzuConfucianism / K’ung Fu-tzu

• The key to proper, ethical behavior is for everyone to act The key to proper, ethical behavior is for everyone to act according to their according to their Dao (Way).Dao (Way).

- Even the ruler had his own Dao and if he ignored it he - Even the ruler had his own Dao and if he ignored it he would lose would lose his mandate from heaven to rule. his mandate from heaven to rule.

- A ruler that had to resort to force to subdue his - A ruler that had to resort to force to subdue his population has population has already failed in his duty. already failed in his duty.

• Two main elements of the Two main elements of the DaoDao::

- all individuals had to subordinate their personal interests - all individuals had to subordinate their personal interests and and aspirations to the broader need of the family and the aspirations to the broader need of the family and the community.community.

- individuals must possess the idea of “humanity” – - individuals must possess the idea of “humanity” – compassion and empathy for others / “Do NOT do compassion and empathy for others / “Do NOT do

unto others what unto others what you WOULD NOT wish do to yourself.” you WOULD NOT wish do to yourself.”

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ConfucianismConfucianism

Confucius / K’ung Fu-tzuConfucius / K’ung Fu-tzu

• Confucius believed government should be open to all men Confucius believed government should be open to all men of superior quality and not limited to those of noble birth. of superior quality and not limited to those of noble birth.

- This idea was not accepted immediately but later - This idea was not accepted immediately but later influenced influenced China’s introduction of the civil service China’s introduction of the civil service exam for government exam for government officials. officials.

• An important disciple of Confucius was An important disciple of Confucius was MenciusMencius (370—290 (370—290 BCE). BCE).

- Believed humans were good by nature - Believed humans were good by nature - Ruler’s duty was to rule with compassion.- Ruler’s duty was to rule with compassion.

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ConfucianismConfucianism

• Confucianism became the ruling philosophy first during the Confucianism became the ruling philosophy first during the Han DynastyHan Dynasty and later during the: and later during the:

- T’ang- T’ang- Sung- Sung- Yuan (even though the Mongol ruler Kublai Khan - Yuan (even though the Mongol ruler Kublai Khan

was was Buddhist) Buddhist)- Ming- Ming- Qing- Qing

• The Sui Dynasty made The Sui Dynasty made BuddhismBuddhism and and DaoismDaoism the ruling the ruling philosophies, expanding Buddhist monasteries and philosophies, expanding Buddhist monasteries and promoting Buddhist monks to key positions as political promoting Buddhist monks to key positions as political advisers.advisers.

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Confucius and MenciusConfucius and Mencius

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Confucius and SocratesConfucius and Socrates• Both lived within a century of each other: Both lived within a century of each other:

- Confucius (551 – 479 BCE)- Confucius (551 – 479 BCE)- Socrates (470 – 399 BCE)- Socrates (470 – 399 BCE)

• Both were philosophers who were mainly concerned with Both were philosophers who were mainly concerned with questions of moral behavior / both were “consultants” of questions of moral behavior / both were “consultants” of better, ethical behaviorbetter, ethical behavior

• Both had an enormous influence on their societiesBoth had an enormous influence on their societies

- Confucius = Eastern Civilization- Confucius = Eastern Civilization- Socrates = Western Civilization- Socrates = Western Civilization

• Neither left their thoughts in writing but their ideas were Neither left their thoughts in writing but their ideas were spread by their disciplesspread by their disciples

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Belief Systems – China:Belief Systems – China:Religions and PhilosophiesReligions and Philosophies

LegalismLegalism

• Han FeiziHan Feizi – founder of the Legalist school of thought. – founder of the Legalist school of thought.• Disputed Confucius and Mencius’ view that humans are Disputed Confucius and Mencius’ view that humans are

naturally inclined towards good.naturally inclined towards good.

• Legalists believed that people are by nature evil and need Legalists believed that people are by nature evil and need to be forced to do good by harsh laws and stiff to be forced to do good by harsh laws and stiff punishments.punishments.

• Only a strong ruler could create an orderly society / Only Only a strong ruler could create an orderly society / Only firm action by the state could bring about social order.firm action by the state could bring about social order.

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Belief Systems – China:Belief Systems – China:Legalism in PracticeLegalism in Practice

• Shi HuangdiShi Huangdi, leader of the Qin Dynasty made Legalism the first “ruling , leader of the Qin Dynasty made Legalism the first “ruling ideology” in China’s history.ideology” in China’s history.

• Created an authoritarian system:Created an authoritarian system:

- non-Legalist political philosophies (including - non-Legalist political philosophies (including Confucianism) were banned Confucianism) were banned

- books offering views contrary to Legalist principles were - books offering views contrary to Legalist principles were burned burned

- all disagreements with the government was made a capital - all disagreements with the government was made a capital crime crime

• The dynasty was overthrown because it was too oppressiveThe dynasty was overthrown because it was too oppressive

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Dynastic Rule and Structure of Dynastic Rule and Structure of GovernmentGovernment

• Shi Huangdi centralized political power in his hands. His Shi Huangdi centralized political power in his hands. His way of ruling became a model for future Chinese way of ruling became a model for future Chinese dynasties. He did this by:dynasties. He did this by:

- Appointing officials at the provincial and county - Appointing officials at the provincial and county level / they level / they did not inherit their positions like under the did not inherit their positions like under the ZhouZhou

- Unified the system of weights and measures- Unified the system of weights and measures

- Standardized the money system & the alphabet- Standardized the money system & the alphabet

- Constructed a system of roads all over the empire- Constructed a system of roads all over the empire

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Belief Systems – China:Belief Systems – China:Legalism in PracticeLegalism in Practice

• People were conscripted for mandatory state People were conscripted for mandatory state projects: projects:

Irrigation projectsIrrigation projects Construction of sections of the Construction of sections of the Great Great Wall Wall

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Legalist Influence on China’s Legalist Influence on China’s LeadersLeaders

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Part II. Government and Part II. Government and PoliticsPolitics

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Dynastic Rule and Structure of Dynastic Rule and Structure of GovernmentGovernment

• Since the Shang, China has been ruled by Since the Shang, China has been ruled by hereditary dynasties led by Emperors.hereditary dynasties led by Emperors.

• The Zhou overthrew the Shang an justified The Zhou overthrew the Shang an justified this by the theory of the this by the theory of the “Mandate of “Mandate of Heaven,”Heaven,” the explanation used by all the explanation used by all subsequent ruling dynasties of China.subsequent ruling dynasties of China.

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Causes of Dynasties to FallCauses of Dynasties to Fall

1.1. Rivalries between different landed aristocratic clansRivalries between different landed aristocratic clans

2.2. Corrupt or weak emperorsCorrupt or weak emperors

3.3. Crushing tax burden, especially on the peasants > Crushing tax burden, especially on the peasants > peasant rebellionspeasant rebellions

4.4. Sharp economic inequalitySharp economic inequality

5.5. Constant “barbarian” attacks Constant “barbarian” attacks

6.6. Oppressive, authoritarian ruleOppressive, authoritarian rule

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Dynastic Rule and Structure of Dynastic Rule and Structure of GovernmentGovernment

• Ever since the Shang, the country was divided into different Ever since the Shang, the country was divided into different levels territories:levels territories:

• Beginning with the Shang, the country was divided into Beginning with the Shang, the country was divided into territories governed by aristocratic chiefs that the Emperor territories governed by aristocratic chiefs that the Emperor appointed.appointed.

- He could depose each administrator as he pleased.- He could depose each administrator as he pleased.

• Under the T’ang, the country was divided into provinces, Under the T’ang, the country was divided into provinces, districts and villages.districts and villages.

- The village level government was run by village - The village level government was run by village elders.elders.

- Handled local issues and tax collecting for the - Handled local issues and tax collecting for the central central government. government.

- Most people had little involvement with government. - Most people had little involvement with government. If If they did, it was on the village level. they did, it was on the village level.

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Dynastic Rule and Structure of Dynastic Rule and Structure of GovernmentGovernment

1. Emperor1. Emperor

2. Grand Council2. Grand Council

a. assisted by a secretariat and a chancellerya. assisted by a secretariat and a chancelleryb. included representatives from all three authorities:b. included representatives from all three authorities:

CivilCivilMilitaryMilitaryCensorateCensorate

3. Department of State Affairs3. Department of State Affairs

a. composed of six ministriesa. composed of six ministries

- justice / military affairs / personnel / public works - justice / military affairs / personnel / public works / / revenue / ritual revenue / ritual

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The Civil Service ExamThe Civil Service Exam• First given in 165 BCE during the First given in 165 BCE during the Han dynastyHan dynasty, it was a way to , it was a way to

provide well educated and well trained government bureaucrats.provide well educated and well trained government bureaucrats.

• Civil Service Exams under the Han were based on Confucian Civil Service Exams under the Han were based on Confucian political & social ethics.political & social ethics.

• Theoretically, most males were eligible to take the exams except Theoretically, most males were eligible to take the exams except criminals and merchants.criminals and merchants.

-During the Sung Dynasty, relatives of nobles serving in -During the Sung Dynasty, relatives of nobles serving in the imperial the imperial court and eunuchs were also not allowed to take court and eunuchs were also not allowed to take the exam. Still, the exam. Still, most that took it were landed nobles. most that took it were landed nobles.

- In reality, most poor males could not afford to sacrifice - In reality, most poor males could not afford to sacrifice work work time to study in the academy. time to study in the academy.

• Academies were opened under the Han to prepare students for the Academies were opened under the Han to prepare students for the exams.exams.

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The Civil Service ExamThe Civil Service Exam• Under the Sung Dynasty, Under the Sung Dynasty,

the examination system the examination system attained the form it was to attained the form it was to retain to the end of the retain to the end of the dynastic system:dynastic system:

- 3 levels of exams for - 3 levels of exams for different different

government government positions positions

- Students complained the - Students complained the exams were too difficult or exams were too difficult or that it was all memorization that it was all memorization and irrelevant.and irrelevant.

- Many brought cheat - Many brought cheat sheets with them sheets with them

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The Civil Service ExamThe Civil Service Exam

• The Qing (Manchu) The Qing (Manchu) Dynasty (1644-1912) Dynasty (1644-1912) tried to make the civil tried to make the civil service exam more service exam more equitable by equitable by establishing quotas for establishing quotas for each major ethnic each major ethnic group and province.group and province.

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The Civil Service ExamThe Civil Service Exam

• With all its With all its imperfections, the exam:imperfections, the exam:

- provided for more - provided for more efficient governmentefficient government

- more opportunity for - more opportunity for upward mobilityupward mobility

• It was abolished just It was abolished just before the Ming were before the Ming were overthrown.overthrown.

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Part III. Social ClassesPart III. Social Classes

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Landed AristocracyLanded Aristocracy• The elites throughout Chinese civilization until the 20The elites throughout Chinese civilization until the 20 thth century. century.

- Played a dominant role in the political and - Played a dominant role in the political and economic life of China. economic life of China.

- The best arable land was concentrated in their hands. - The best arable land was concentrated in their hands. Peasants worked as tenant farmers for them. Peasants worked as tenant farmers for them.

• Shi Huangdi tried to break their power by dividing their estates Shi Huangdi tried to break their power by dividing their estates among the peasants. (like Ivan the Terrible in Russia in the 16among the peasants. (like Ivan the Terrible in Russia in the 16 thth century).century).

• Most attempts by Chinese leaders to break the power of the Most attempts by Chinese leaders to break the power of the landed nobility by distributing the land to the poor ended in landed nobility by distributing the land to the poor ended in failure.failure.

- Many revolts in China were caused by the issue of land - Many revolts in China were caused by the issue of land distribution: distribution: the large peasant population was chronically the large peasant population was chronically short of land while the short of land while the landed nobility never wanted its land landed nobility never wanted its land confiscated and redistributed.confiscated and redistributed.

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PeasantryPeasantry• Unlike in the West, the peasantry in China did not occupy the Unlike in the West, the peasantry in China did not occupy the

lowest rung of society.lowest rung of society.

• Chinese peasants owned their own land since Shang period but Chinese peasants owned their own land since Shang period but were often turned into tenant farmers when the landed were often turned into tenant farmers when the landed aristocracy grabbed their land.aristocracy grabbed their land.

• Before the T’ang, many peasants were reduced to serfdom or Before the T’ang, many peasants were reduced to serfdom or slavery again by aristocratic landowners.slavery again by aristocratic landowners.

• For most of China’s history, the peasantry was crushed with a host For most of China’s history, the peasantry was crushed with a host of different taxes. Also forced to work on public works:of different taxes. Also forced to work on public works:

- irrigation projects- irrigation projects- constructing the Great Wall- constructing the Great Wall- military conscription- military conscription

• Chinese peasant rebellions were the largest and most violent of Chinese peasant rebellions were the largest and most violent of any society.any society.

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MerchantsMerchants• ““The mind of a superior man dwells on righteousness; The mind of a superior man dwells on righteousness;

the mind of a little man dwells on profit". -the mind of a little man dwells on profit". - ConfuciusConfucius

• Merchants were treated particularly poorly in Merchants were treated particularly poorly in comparison to other societies.comparison to other societies.

- During the - During the Zhou dynastyZhou dynasty, they were , they were considered considered the property of the local lord and on the property of the local lord and on occasion could occasion could even be bought and sold like even be bought and sold like chattel.chattel.

- - Qin rulersQin rulers viewed them as parasites / private viewed them as parasites / private commercial activities were severely restricted commercial activities were severely restricted

and and heavily taxed. heavily taxed.

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MerchantsMerchants

• During the During the Han dynastyHan dynasty, merchants were , merchants were prohibited from seeking political office, restricted prohibited from seeking political office, restricted to where they could live, and generally viewed as to where they could live, and generally viewed as parasites that do not add value to Chinese parasites that do not add value to Chinese society.society.

• The T’ang and Song dynasties continued to The T’ang and Song dynasties continued to restrict the merchants.restrict the merchants.

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Other Social Groups: Other Social Groups: EunuchsEunuchs

• Shi Huangdi established a class of eunuchs who Shi Huangdi established a class of eunuchs who served as personal attendants of the emperor and served as personal attendants of the emperor and female members of his family.female members of his family.

- Why? Since eunuchs could not have - Why? Since eunuchs could not have children, they children, they would not rise up against the would not rise up against the emperor to sieze emperor to sieze power for his sons. power for his sons.

To restrict the influence of male courtiers.To restrict the influence of male courtiers.

• Eunuchs became a standard fixture of the Eunuchs became a standard fixture of the Chinese imperial system.Chinese imperial system.

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Part IV. Economic ActivityPart IV. Economic Activity

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AgricultureAgriculture

• For most of Chinese history, agriculture was the For most of Chinese history, agriculture was the main economic activity and the main source of main economic activity and the main source of production.production.

• The predominance of agriculture even led the The predominance of agriculture even led the Ming rulers to suspend forever overseas Ming rulers to suspend forever overseas exploration.exploration.

• When the Industrial Revolution developed in When the Industrial Revolution developed in Europe, China ignored it.Europe, China ignored it.

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CommerceCommerce

• From the days of the Qin, the state directed much trade From the days of the Qin, the state directed much trade and manufacturing:and manufacturing:

- weapons / operated shipyards, granaries, mines- weapons / operated shipyards, granaries, mines

- directed foreign trade with neighboring countries- directed foreign trade with neighboring countries

• China’s trade and prosperity grew greatly under the China’s trade and prosperity grew greatly under the Han dynasty. Han dynasty.

• The T’ang and Song dynasties relaxed the government The T’ang and Song dynasties relaxed the government monopoly on long-distance trade and encouraged monopoly on long-distance trade and encouraged private commerce.private commerce.

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CommerceCommerce• Trade and foreign contact increased under the T’ang and Yuan Trade and foreign contact increased under the T’ang and Yuan

dynasties.dynasties.

- The Mongols controlled China under the Yuan / their - The Mongols controlled China under the Yuan / their empire empire stretched to Europe and south into the Middle stretched to Europe and south into the Middle East.East.

• The Ming rulers who replaced the Mongols at first strictly curtailed The Ming rulers who replaced the Mongols at first strictly curtailed foreign contacts until Muslim eunuch foreign contacts until Muslim eunuch Zheng HeZheng He was allowed to go was allowed to go on 7 explorations from 1405-1432. on 7 explorations from 1405-1432.

- Afterwards, all maritime expeditions were suspended - Afterwards, all maritime expeditions were suspended indefinitely. indefinitely.

- This marks the beginning of China’s stagnation and - This marks the beginning of China’s stagnation and decline.decline.

Page 57: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Part V. Cultural Part V. Cultural AchievementsAchievements

Page 58: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Belief SystemsBelief Systems

• The period of the Zhou Dynasty produced many The period of the Zhou Dynasty produced many of China’s most important philosophies:of China’s most important philosophies:

- Confucianism- Confucianism

- Daoism- Daoism

- Legalism- Legalism

• Influenced its Far Eastern neighbors in writing Influenced its Far Eastern neighbors in writing system, literature, art, architecture.system, literature, art, architecture.

Page 59: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Part VI. Technological Part VI. Technological AchievementsAchievements

Page 60: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Silk IndustrySilk Industry

• China was the first country in the ancient world to China was the first country in the ancient world to cultivate the mulberry plant, raise silkworms, and produce cultivate the mulberry plant, raise silkworms, and produce silksilk items. items.

• Silk production began during the Zhou dynasty but really Silk production began during the Zhou dynasty but really took off during the Han.took off during the Han.

• The manufacture & trade in silk was very lucrative. The manufacture & trade in silk was very lucrative.

- Used for clothing, quilts- Used for clothing, quilts

• After silkworms were smuggled out of China to the After silkworms were smuggled out of China to the Byzantine Empire, Emperor Justinian nationalized the silk Byzantine Empire, Emperor Justinian nationalized the silk trade in 542 CE.trade in 542 CE.

Page 61: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

The Silk RoadThe Silk Road

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Agriculture – Iron PlowAgriculture – Iron Plow

• Iron plowsIron plows - developed - developed first in China during first in China during the 3rd BCE.the 3rd BCE.

• By the 1st century By the 1st century BCE, the Chinese BCE, the Chinese developed moldboards developed moldboards that could invert soil.that could invert soil.

• Europeans only Europeans only developed moldboards developed moldboards in the late 10in the late 10thth century.century.

Page 63: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Agriculture - HarnessAgriculture - Harness

• There is evidence that the There is evidence that the harnessharness was first used in was first used in China in the 1China in the 1stst century BCE, century BCE, a thousand years before it a thousand years before it was used in Europe.was used in Europe.

• The horse collar made it The horse collar made it possible for peasants to use possible for peasants to use horses as work animals.horses as work animals.

• Horses were faster than Horses were faster than oxen – more agricultural oxen – more agricultural output.output.

Page 64: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

CanalsCanals

• The world’s first transport The world’s first transport contour contour canalcanal was was constructed in China in the constructed in China in the 33rdrd century BCE on the century BCE on the orders of Shi Huangdi.orders of Shi Huangdi.

• ““The Magic Canal” The Magic Canal” (Lingqu)(Lingqu)

• Linked the Xiang and Li Linked the Xiang and Li Rivers.Rivers.

• The “Grand Canal,” begun The “Grand Canal,” begun in 330 BCE, was completed in 330 BCE, was completed during the Yuan dynasty during the Yuan dynasty (1293).(1293).

• Both canals are still in use Both canals are still in use in China.in China.

Page 65: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

BridgesBridges

• The Chinese built the The Chinese built the first segmented first segmented arch arch bridgebridge in 610 CE in 610 CE called the called the Anji Bridge Anji Bridge (Zhaozhou Bridge)(Zhaozhou Bridge). It . It is still standing today.is still standing today.

Page 66: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

PaperPaper

• Paper was invented by the Paper was invented by the Chinese during the Chinese during the Han Han dynastydynasty..

• From China, papermaking From China, papermaking moved to Korea, where moved to Korea, where production of paper began production of paper began as early as the 5as early as the 5thth century century CE.CE.

• From Korea, papermaking From Korea, papermaking was brought to Japan by a was brought to Japan by a Buddhist monk. Buddhist monk.

Page 67: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

PrintingPrinting• Woodblock printingWoodblock printing on on

paper and silk was first paper and silk was first developed in China in the developed in China in the around the 7around the 7thth century CE. century CE.

• Buddhist monks were Buddhist monks were important in advancing important in advancing this technique.this technique.

• The earliest printed text in The earliest printed text in the world was a Buddhist the world was a Buddhist scroll which was scroll which was discovered in Korea discovered in Korea between 704-751.between 704-751.

• Moveable type was also Moveable type was also invented in China in the invented in China in the 1111thth century. century.

Page 68: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

MetalworkingMetalworking• During the During the T’ang dynastyT’ang dynasty, ,

the Chinese mastered the the Chinese mastered the art of art of manufacturing steelmanufacturing steel by mixing cast and wrought by mixing cast and wrought iron.iron.

• They mixed the two in a They mixed the two in a blast furnace, another blast furnace, another Chinese invention.Chinese invention.

- made swords, - made swords, sickles sickles and and suits of armor.suits of armor.

• By the 11By the 11thth century, China century, China produced more than 35,000 produced more than 35,000 tons of steel, seven tons of steel, seven centuries before the centuries before the Industrial Revolution in Industrial Revolution in England.England.

Page 69: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Gunpowder / ExplosivesGunpowder / Explosives

• Gunpowder was invented Gunpowder was invented by the Chinese during the by the Chinese during the T’ang dynastyT’ang dynasty and used and used primarily for explosives. primarily for explosives.

• It reached the West It reached the West through the Arabs in the through the Arabs in the 1212thth century. century.

Page 70: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Maritime - CompassMaritime - Compass

• The invention of the The invention of the compasscompass (Sung dynasty) (Sung dynasty) and improvements in and improvements in shipbuilding made the shipbuilding made the Chinese a maritime power.Chinese a maritime power.

• Trading along the Silk Road Trading along the Silk Road was becoming hazardous – was becoming hazardous – this prompted China to this prompted China to seek maritime trade seek maritime trade routes.routes.

• Between the 12Between the 12thth-15-15thth centuries, Chinese ships centuries, Chinese ships reached Kamchatka reached Kamchatka (Russia) in the northeast (Russia) in the northeast Pacific to Madagascar in Pacific to Madagascar in the Indian Ocean.the Indian Ocean.

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Part VII. Foreign RelationsPart VII. Foreign Relations

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Foreign RelationsForeign Relations• Generally speaking, the Chinese did not believe they could learn Generally speaking, the Chinese did not believe they could learn

or benefit much from contacts with the outside world:or benefit much from contacts with the outside world:

- meaning of the “Middle Kingdom”- meaning of the “Middle Kingdom”

- “The Great Wall” as a barrier- “The Great Wall” as a barrier

• "Whilst his parent is alive the son may not take a distant voyage "Whilst his parent is alive the son may not take a distant voyage abroad;. if he has to take such a voyage the destination must be abroad;. if he has to take such a voyage the destination must be known.”known.” - Confucius - Confucius

• Foreign trade expanded under the Han dynasty. Foreign trade expanded under the Han dynasty.

• Overall, world trade declined with the collapse of the Han Overall, world trade declined with the collapse of the Han dynasty and the Roman Empire (220 & 476 CE).dynasty and the Roman Empire (220 & 476 CE).

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Foreign RelationsForeign Relations

• The Chinese have been reluctant to dilute the The Chinese have been reluctant to dilute the purity of their culture with foreign innovations purity of their culture with foreign innovations because:because:

- pride in their own considerable - pride in their own considerable achievementsachievements

- their dominant position throughout Far - their dominant position throughout Far Eastern Eastern region region

Page 74: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Relations with Asian Relations with Asian Neighbors:Neighbors:

JapanJapan• Although the Japanese were aware of China for centuries, they first Although the Japanese were aware of China for centuries, they first

began noticing China’s might in the early 7began noticing China’s might in the early 7thth century CE. century CE.

- During the 7- During the 7thth century, the Japanese modeled their century, the Japanese modeled their government after China’s. / Japan failed to centralize its government after China’s. / Japan failed to centralize its government like China. government like China.

- Buddhism came from China in the 6- Buddhism came from China in the 6thth century CE. century CE.

• 710 – Japan’s capital city, Nara, then later Kyoto were designed to 710 – Japan’s capital city, Nara, then later Kyoto were designed to emulate Tang China’s capital, Chang’an.emulate Tang China’s capital, Chang’an.

• Instituted civil service exams for government bureaucrats however:Instituted civil service exams for government bureaucrats however:

- exams restricted to those of noble birth - exams restricted to those of noble birth

Page 75: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Relations with Asian Relations with Asian Neighbors:Neighbors:

JapanJapan• Foreign trade, mostly with China and Korea, began during Foreign trade, mostly with China and Korea, began during

the 11the 11thth century CE. century CE.

• Chinese influence on ancient Japan can also be seen in the Chinese influence on ancient Japan can also be seen in the literature, art, especially during the 7literature, art, especially during the 7thth and 8 and 8thth centuries. centuries.

• Japan had no written language for recording their spoken Japan had no written language for recording their spoken language so they adopted Chinese. Eventually the language so they adopted Chinese. Eventually the Japanese developed a hybrid of Chinese characters with Japanese developed a hybrid of Chinese characters with Japanese pronunciations.Japanese pronunciations.

• Between the 8Between the 8thth and 12 and 12thth century, most educated Japanese century, most educated Japanese preferred to speak Chinese. preferred to speak Chinese.

Page 76: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Relations with Asian Relations with Asian Neighbors:Neighbors:

KoreaKorea• No country in East Asia was more strongly influenced by the No country in East Asia was more strongly influenced by the

Chinese model than Korea.Chinese model than Korea.

• In 109 BCE, the northern part of the Korean peninsula came In 109 BCE, the northern part of the Korean peninsula came under direct Chinese rule.under direct Chinese rule.

• With the decline of the Han dynasty, local tribal leaders With the decline of the Han dynasty, local tribal leaders drove the Chinese out but maintained China’s cultural drove the Chinese out but maintained China’s cultural influence.influence.

• 3 Korean kingdoms emerged – all absorbed Chinese political 3 Korean kingdoms emerged – all absorbed Chinese political and cultural institutions.and cultural institutions.

- The - The KoguryoKoguryo in the north was the most influenced by in the north was the most influenced by China.China.

- Buddhism was introduced in the late 4th century CE - Buddhism was introduced in the late 4th century CE and the and the first Confucian academy in Korea was first Confucian academy in Korea was established in established in Pyongyang. Pyongyang.

Page 77: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Relations with Asian Relations with Asian Neighbors:Neighbors:

KoreaKorea• The The SillaSilla kingdom, located in the southeastern part of the kingdom, located in the southeastern part of the

peninsula, was least influenced by China. peninsula, was least influenced by China.

- It was the strongest of the three Korean kingdoms- It was the strongest of the three Korean kingdoms- Forced the Chinese to withdraw from most of its - Forced the Chinese to withdraw from most of its territory. territory.- Silla accepted tributary status with China under - Silla accepted tributary status with China under

the Tang the Tang dynasty. dynasty.

• Even as a unified state, the rulers of Silla tried to use Even as a unified state, the rulers of Silla tried to use Chinese political institutions and ideology to form a Chinese political institutions and ideology to form a centralized state but faced strong resistance from centralized state but faced strong resistance from powerful aristocratic families.powerful aristocratic families.

- Failure to centralize led to Silla’s collapse.- Failure to centralize led to Silla’s collapse.

• The new dynasty called Koryo adopted Chinese political The new dynasty called Koryo adopted Chinese political institutions in an effort to unify and centralize Korea.institutions in an effort to unify and centralize Korea.

Page 78: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

China Under Foreign RulersChina Under Foreign Rulers

• Twice in its dynastic history China was under Twice in its dynastic history China was under foreign rule:foreign rule:

- Yuan dynasty – Mongols- Yuan dynasty – Mongols

- Qing dynasty – Manchus- Qing dynasty – Manchus

• The Mongols initially tried to rule China as their The Mongols initially tried to rule China as their own tribal society. Eventually, they adopted own tribal society. Eventually, they adopted China’s political system, the civil service exams, China’s political system, the civil service exams, and Confucian philosophy.and Confucian philosophy.

Page 79: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

China Under Foreign RulersChina Under Foreign Rulers• The Manchus ordered all Chinese to adopt Manchu dress The Manchus ordered all Chinese to adopt Manchu dress

and hair styles. All Chinese males were to shave their and hair styles. All Chinese males were to shave their foreheads and braid there hair. foreheads and braid there hair.

- Manchus were only 2% of the entire population of - Manchus were only 2% of the entire population of China! China!

• The Manchus adopted the Chinese political system and The Manchus adopted the Chinese political system and were accepted by most Chinese as legitimate rulers. were accepted by most Chinese as legitimate rulers.

- Accepted Confucianism- Accepted Confucianism- Manchu nobles retained their aristocratic privileges - Manchu nobles retained their aristocratic privileges

but ethnic but ethnic Chinese were brought into the top ranks of Chinese were brought into the top ranks of government.government.

• Manchus increasingly assimilated into Chinese civilization.Manchus increasingly assimilated into Chinese civilization.

Page 80: Ancient Civilizations Project: China. China - Geography

Useful Links for ChinaUseful Links for China

1.1. http://www.artsmia.org/art-of-asia/history/chinese-dynasthttp://www.artsmia.org/art-of-asia/history/chinese-dynasty-guide.cfmy-guide.cfm - Art from the Far East - Art from the Far East

2.2. http://east_west_dialogue.tripod.com/id1.htmlhttp://east_west_dialogue.tripod.com/id1.html

3.3. http://www.wsu.edu/~dee/CHPHIL/CONTENTS.HTMhttp://www.wsu.edu/~dee/CHPHIL/CONTENTS.HTM

4.4. http://www.chinaculture.org/gb/en/node_2.htmhttp://www.chinaculture.org/gb/en/node_2.htm - Chinese - Chinese culture, history and achievements.culture, history and achievements.


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