Ancient China - Political Organization

Flashcards about Ancient China's Political Organization and Dynasties

Dynasty

When one family rules a country or region over a long period, with power typically passed down within the family.

Shang Dynasty

Marked the beginning of Chinese civilization with a writing system, divination, walled cities, bronze technology, and horse-drawn chariots.

Zhou Dynasty

Featured a hierarchical political and social system with the royal house at the top, bestowing power to aristocratic families.

Qin Dynasty

Created a unitary state with centralized administration and standardized the writing script, weights, and measures.

Han Dynasty

Modified and consolidated the imperial order and established Confucianism.

Sui Dynasty

Reunified China after a period of disunity.

Tang Dynasty

A period of cosmopolitanism and cultural flowering, marked by the height of Buddhist influence.

Song Dynasty

An era of significant economic and social changes, including monetization, growth in commerce, urban expansion, and technological innovations.

Yuan Dynasty

Founded by the Mongols, with Beijing established as the capital.

Ming Dynasty

Saw important changes in the economy and social relations, particularly in the later part of the dynasty.

Qing Dynasty

Continued the economic developments of the late Ming, leading to prosperity.

Mandate of Heaven

The divine source of authority and right to rule, holding rulers morally obligated to govern for the good of the people.