China

What is considered the first modern state with a centralized government?

China.

How long did the centralized government and bureaucratic system in China last?

From 150 BCE to 1911 CE.

What was the significant work used by the Chinese to document history?

Shujing (Classic of History).

What is a dynasty?

A dynasty is characterized by rule from a continuous royal family, typically led by an emperor.

What can cause the end of a dynasty?

Lack of male heirs, overthrow through rebellion or war.

Which dynasty is considered fictional?

Xia Dynasty.

Which dynasty was overthrown by the Zhou?

Shang Dynasty.

What significant period did the Zhou Dynasty lead to?

Warring States period.

What was notable about the Qin Dynasty?

It unified China for the first time in 500 years and lasted only 38 years.

How long did the Han Dynasty last?

Nearly 400 years.

Which dynasty is known for cultural and economic growth?

Tang Dynasty.

What happened to the Song Dynasty?

It experienced significant commercial expansion before being conquered by the Yuan.

What was the Yuan Dynasty known for?

Mongol rule that faced rebellions leading to the Ming Dynasty.

What achievements is the Ming Dynasty known for?

Building the Great Wall and cultural achievements.

What was the last dynasty of China?

Qing Dynasty.

When did the Qing Dynasty end?

In 1911 after a rebellion.

What does the Mandate of Heaven justify?

The rise and fall of dynasties based on moral governance.

What concept is emphasized by Confucius regarding societal stability?

Moral behavior.

What is filial piety?

Respect between parents and family members, a central belief in Confucian thought.

What does the ideal ruler, Junzi, embody according to Confucianism?

Moral integrity.

How were early historians influenced according to the notes?

By Confucian ideals, attributing dynastic changes to the moral conduct of rulers.

What are natural disasters interpreted as in historical context?

Signs of a lost Mandate due to improper ruling.

What is the Book of Documents?

A collection of documents from the Zhou Dynasty that served as a rulebook for leaders.

What philosophy was officially adopted by the Qin Dynasty?

Legalism.

What impact did Legalism have during the Warring States period?

It helped unify China under one government and ruler.

What caused the fall of Legalism?

Around the time the Han dynasty started to take control.

What is the Taotie?

Bronze masks that were power/status symbols purchased by the wealthy.

What is the Book of Songs?

An anthology of poems and songs from ancient China, providing insight into ancient behavior.

What does the Mandate of Heaven require of an emperor?

To live a life of good choices to have the divine right to rule.

What is Ren in Confucianism?

Humaneness or benevolence, representing ideal compassion and empathy.

What do Yin and Yang represent?

The idea to maintain harmony in the universe, encompassing opposites.