SS: Ancient China Study Guide Open-ended Questions

What does the dynastic cycle tell us about leaders?

Dynastic cycle—-new rulers come in to fix problems that old rulers created, and then they get overthrown. Leaders argued that they were chosen by gods. Early on, leaders do a good job fixing the problems, but over time they become selfish and corrupt.

Why was tea important to Chinese culture?

They used tea to heal, trade on the Silk road, to welcome people into their homes. It’s used as a sign of respect, builds connections between people, they were able to get new items by trading tea on the Silk Road.

How did geography impact the way people lived in China?

Most people lived near the rivers to help them get a water source and farmed. The climates in the North vs. South impacted what you could grow. Deserts and the Himalayan Mountains were also helpful for protection.

What was the importance of the Great Wall?

It helped provide protection from the Mongols in the North, and a lot of people died or were injured building the wall.

Why was the Silk Road important for Ancient China?

They could get new resources + ideas, and they could make more money.