Classical China: Zhou, Qin, and Han Dynasties, Confucianism, and Daoism

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering the dynasties, philosophical systems, key historical figures, governance structures, and social hierarchies of Classical China.

Zhou Dynasty

Classical Chinese dynasty spanning $1029\text{--}258\text{ BCE}$ that ruled through alliances, expanded Chinese territory, and promoted linguistic unity through Mandarin Chinese.

"Middle Kingdom"

An ethnocentric concept held by the Chinese signifying that China was the center of the civilized world and outside peoples were barbaric.

Mandate of Heaven

The philosophical belief and divine justification claimed by Chinese rulers that granted them the right to rule from heaven.

Mandarin Chinese

The standard spoken language promoted during the Zhou Dynasty to foster linguistic unity across territories.

Filial Piety

A foundational Confucian principle emphasizing ancestor worship, devotion to family, and deep respect for parents and elders.

"Mean" People

The lowest social class in Classical Chinese society consisting of unskilled laborers and individuals performing disreputable tasks.

Qin Dynasty

The shortest classical dynasty ($221\text{--}202\text{ BCE}$), characterized by centralized authoritarian rule, standardized systems, and extensive state projects.

Shi Huangdi

The first emperor of unified China who deposed the last Zhou ruler, seized power from regional aristocrats, and governed using Legalist principles.

Great Wall

A vast defensive barrier built under the Qin Dynasty to protect the empire from nomadic intruders and keep Chinese citizens inside.

Legalism

A strict political philosophy developed during the Qin Dynasty asserting that human nature is evil and must be controlled through authoritarian rule, harsh laws, and severe punishments.

Liu Bang

A peasant leader who led a revolt following the death of Shi Huangdi and founded the Han Dynasty in $202\text{ BCE}$.

Han Dynasty

Classical Chinese dynasty lasting from $202\text{ BCE}\text{ to }220\text{ CE}$, marked by territorial expansion, the Silk Roads, administrative bureaucracy, and the integration of Confucianism.

Wu Ti

Han emperor ($140\text{--}87\text{ BCE}$) who established Pax Sinica, promoted peace and prosperity, and reversed Qin anti-intellectual policies by embracing Confucianism.

Civil Service Examination System

A competitive examination system instituted during the Han Dynasty to select government officials based on formal training in Confucian philosophy.

Meritocracy

A system where positions, bureaucratic appointments, and rewards are earned based on demonstrated skill and talent rather than noble connections or inherited status.

Silk Roads

Extensive overland trade networks connecting Han China to India and the Mediterranean region, primarily used to exchange luxury goods like silk, jade, jewelry, and furniture.

Paper

A major technological invention developed in China in $105\text{ CE}$ during the Han Dynasty.

Huns

Central Asian nomadic invaders whose frequent incursions from the north contributed to the weakening and eventual collapse of the Han Dynasty.

Confucius (Kung Fuzi)

Influential Chinese philosopher ($551\text{--}478\text{ BCE}$) whose ethical teachings emphasized social hierarchy, political virtue, education, and respect for tradition.

Analects

The compilation of philosophical dialogues, teachings, and ethical maxims of Confucius assembled by his followers after his death.

Five Relationships

The core Confucian social hierarchy regulating interactions: ruler to ruled, father to son, husband to wife, older brother to younger brother, and friend to friend.

Daoism

A spiritual philosophy emphasizing harmony with the natural world, humility, and frugal living while regarding political ambition and formal learning as irrelevant.

Dao

A central philosophical concept in Daoism translated as 'The Way of Nature', characterized by mystery and cosmic harmony.

Laozi

The traditional founder of Daoism who lived during the 5th century BCE and promoted living in balance with nature.

Bureaucracy

A centralized body of specialized non-elected government ministers and officials that developed in Classical China and outlasted the dynasties that created it.