01
Front
Who unified China in 221 BCE, and what title did he take?
Back
In 221 BCE, Ying Zheng conquered the rival Warring States and proclaimed himself Qin Shi Huang, or “First Emperor.”
Free Online Flashcard Deck
08 Imperial China and Its Traditions Free Online FlashCards
Study 08 Imperial China and Its Traditions with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
12 cards
02
Front
How did Qin administrative divisions strengthen central rule?
Back
The Qin organized territory into commanderies and counties governed by centrally appointed officials, reducing hereditary regional rule.
03
Front
Which systems did the Qin standardize across the empire?
Back
The Qin standardized script, currency, weights, and measures, and expanded roads and canals to connect and govern the empire.
04
Front
What governing tools did Legalism emphasize?
Back
Legalism emphasized clear laws, administrative control, and firm penalties as means of maintaining order.
05
Front
How did the Han respond to the Qin administrative legacy?
Back
After the Qin fell in 206 BCE, the Han retained important Qin institutions while adjusting how they were used.
06
Front
What were the two periods of the Han dynasty?
Back
The Han dynasty lasted from 206 BCE to 220 CE and included Western (Former) Han and Eastern (Later) Han periods.
07
Front
Which values did Han rulers promote through Confucianism?
Back
Confucian teachings stressed learning, ritual, filial respect, and the ruler’s responsibility to govern ethically.
08
Front
What role did the Imperial Academy play in Han government?
Back
The Imperial Academy supported the study of authoritative Confucian texts.
09
Front
How could a learned or filial person enter Han government service?
Back
Local authorities could recommend candidates noted for qualities such as learning or filial conduct; this was not a mature competitive examination system.
10
Front
How did Han government combine Confucian ideals with administration?
Back
Han government paired Confucian ideals of ethical rule with practical tools such as laws, ranked offices, and state controls.
11
Front
What does wu wei mean in Daoist thought?
Back
Daoist thought often valued naturalness, simplicity, and wu wei: action that avoids forceful interference.
12
Front
Are philosophical Daoist texts and organized Daoist religion identical?
Back
Philosophical Daoist texts and organized Daoist religion are related but should not be treated as identical or as one state doctrine.