WebQuest
Ancient China
Day 2: Today explorers you will learn about Chinese Dynasties. What is a Dynasty anyway? Let's go explore, and learn more! Don't forget to take notes along the way.
The Mandate of Heaven and Dynastic Cycle
Mandate of Heaven:
From at least 1766BC to the twentieth century of the Common Era, China was ruled by dynasties. A dynasty is a ruling family that passes control from one generation to the next. One Chinese dynasty lasted more than 800 years, while another lasted only fifteen years. The ancient Chinese people often supported their rulers because of what they called the Mandate of Heaven. The ancient Chinese believed their ancestors in heaven had chosen their leaders. The people would rebel against a weak leader if they believed he had lost the Mandate of Heaven.
Dynastic Cycle:
In China, a dynasty would remain in power only as long as it was providing good government. When a dynasty went into decline, and began to abuse its power, it was said to lose the Mandate of Heaven, or the favor of the gods. A strong leader would usually emerge to claim the Mandate, and establish a new dynasty. The dynastic cycle would then begin again.
Han Dynasty 206 BCE – 220 CE
China enjoyed a true golden age under the Han. Many cultural and intellectual achievements came as a result of the strong leadership of the Emperor Wudi. Under Wudi, China strengthened both its government and economy, setting the conditions for the golden age. This included a period of expansion that saw the opening of the Silk Road as a major trade route. Trade along the Silk Road brought China in contact with other civilizations, and introduced new products such as cucumbers and grapes.
Under the Hans, Confucianism became the official belief system of China. They also setup a Civil Service Exam based on Confucianism. This exam was required to enter service in the government. The Confucian system of government was used in China for most of the last 2000 years.
Han scientists wrote textbooks on subjects ranging from zoology to botany and chemistry. They were advanced astronomers, which enabled them to create more accurate clocks. Han scientist also invented the process to make paper from wood pulp; they invented the rudder for use on ships, and created other such useful devices as the fishing reel and the wheelbarrow.
Han physicians developed acupuncture to alleviate pain and to treat various illnesses. They also made use of certain plants as herbal remedies. They were able to diagnose and successfully treat various illnesses with these techniques.
Han artists and architects are noted for their detailed carvings in jade, wood, or ivory, and the building of elaborate temples. The also refined the process of silk making, which set the standard in China for centuries.
A Chinese acupuncture chart.
The Tang Dynasty 618-907 CE
After a period of civil war and decline in China, the Tang reestablished a unified government. Tang emperors expanded their influence into Central and Southeast Asia, demanding tribute from such places as Korea and Vietnam. They redistributed land to the peasants and reintroduced the use of Confucian scholars in running the government. Tang emperors also established a law code, and renovated the canal system to encourage trade and communication inside of China.
Under the Tang, a strict social structure was developed. This system consisted of three main social classes, which included the gentry, the peasantry, and the merchants. Each class had its own rights and duties, and social mobility was possible from one class to another.
Tang scientists invented gunpowder in the 9th Century by combining saltpeter, sulfur, and charcoal. They began using block printing in the 8th Century. Block printing is a system of printing where characters are carved onto a wooden block. The block is then inked and pressed onto a sheet of paper. Other inventions include mechanical clocks that kept very accurate time.
Tang physicians developed a small pox vaccine in the 10th century. However, the widespread use of this vaccine did not occur in China until the 16th century. This idea eventually spread west, and was introduced in Europe in the 1600’s.
Under the Tang, a strict social structure was developed. This system consisted of three main social classes, which included the gentry, the peasantry, and the merchants. Each class had its own rights and duties, and social mobility was possible from one class to another.
Tang scientists invented gunpowder in the 9th Century by combining saltpeter, sulfur, and charcoal. They began using block printing in the 8th Century. Block printing is a system of printing where characters are carved onto a wooden block. The block is then inked and pressed onto a sheet of paper. Other inventions include mechanical clocks that kept very accurate time.
Tang physicians developed a small pox vaccine in the 10th century. However, the widespread use of this vaccine did not occur in China until the 16th century. This idea eventually spread west, and was introduced in Europe in the 1600’s.
Song Dynasty 960 – 1279
Ancient Chinese woodblock printing.
After the decline of the Tang Dynasty, China experienced a short period of general chaos, with no strong, central government. In 960 CE, the first Song Emperor reunited most of China. The Chinese Empire under the Song was smaller than the Empire of the Tang, but Chinese culture was still dominate in most of eastern Asia.
Under the Song, China began rice cultivation. China was able to plant two rice crops a year, giving them an abundance of food. The result of this was the ability to pursue other interests, such as art and literature. The Song also maintained extensive trade with the India, Persia, and the Middle East.
Song artisans were known for their fine porcelain, and the use of calligraphy, a form of fine handwriting. Along with the Tang, they are known for stunning landscape paintings. Architects designed the pagoda, which is a multi-storied building with the corners of the roof curved up that were used as temples.
Under the Song, the Chinese invented movable type printing machines. This idea spread to Korea and Japan, and may have also been spread to Europe by Mongol armies. The use of movable type allowed for faster printing, and the widespread diffusion of ideas. Other inventions include the spinning wheel, which is a machine used to make thread.
Please watch the following video to learn more about Chinese Dynasties
After reading the above information, please draw a poster depicting one of the above dynasties. The poster must include three illustrations, as well as a paragraph that summarizes the dynasty, and its important contributions to Ancient China. Make sure to turn your drawing in, if you are not finished by the end of the period it is homework.
Please let me know if you have any questions!
Materials: Computers with internet access, headphones, pencils, white paper, student journal, and markers or crayons.
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