China

When was the medieval period in China?

Roughly 220–1279 AD, from the Three Kingdoms period to the end of the Song dynasty.

What were the major medieval Chinese dynasties?

Sui (581–618)

Tang (618–907)

Song (960–1279)

(plus Yuan after 1279 under Mongol rule)

What followed the Han dynasty?

The Three Kingdoms period (220–280) and centuries of disunity before reunification under the Sui.

What is the Mandate of Heaven?

The belief that emperors ruled by divine approval—but could lose it through misrule.

What was the imperial examination system?

Civil service exams to select bureaucrats based on Confucian knowledge—especially during Tang and Song.

What philosophy dominated Chinese government?

Confucianism, emphasizing order, loyalty, and hierarchy.

What is a scholar-official?

A civil servant who passed the imperial exams—high status in Song China.

What was the An Lushan Rebellion?

A devastating rebellion during the Tang dynasty (755–763) that weakened the empire.

What foreign empire ruled after the Song?

The Mongol-led Yuan dynasty (1279–1368), founded by Kublai Khan.

How did China interact with others during the Tang and Song?

Through trade (Silk Road, maritime routes) and tribute systems with neighboring states.

What were major inventions during the Song dynasty?

Gunpowder, compass, movable-type printing, paper money.

What is the Grand Canal?

A major waterway linking north and south China; built under the Sui dynasty.

What is Neo-Confucianism?

A revival of Confucian ideas blended with Buddhist and Daoist thought during the Song dynasty.

What was the economy like during the Song dynasty?

Highly commercialized with vibrant markets, trade, and urban growth.

What was footbinding?

A painful practice to bind young girls' feet for beauty; began in Song dynasty, symbol of social status.