World Civ China

Shang-Di

The god worshiped by the Shang dynasty. They also did human sacrifice to appease the gods.

Fu Hao

Shang woman and military leader. She was buried with many artifacts and her tomb was extremely well preserved.

Qin Shi Huangdi

First real “Emperor” of China. Introduced Standardized Coinage and Language (through calligraphy). Started construction of the great wall of china. Known for being cold and ruthless, and had many building projects.

Liu Bang

Emperor of the Han dynasty. Was a peasant leader who rose to power through military success before establishing the new Han dynasty.  

Empress Lu

Empress of the Han dynasty who ruled through a series of puppet rulers. Anyone who threatened to take power was eliminated, and she slowly put her family into power.

Han Wudi

Emperor of the Han Dynasty. The apex of the dynasty (grew territory to the largest), passed a law that every son got a portion of their fathers estate, and sold off government and military positions. 

Wang Mang

Usurper of power during the Han Dynasty. Tried to appeal to both the rich and poor by being both Legalist and Confusionist but failed at both. Signs of losing the Mandate of heaven caused him to be beheaded and overthrown.

Sui Yangdi

Sui Emperor responsible for the creation of the Sui Grand Canal that is still used today. Stabbed to death after becoming unpopular in captured territories.

Tang Taizong

Second Emperor of the Tang Dynasty. Retired his father to take the throne. Religiously tolerant, opened up trade routes in and out of China, reformed government to be more than just the upper class, and was extremely open minded. He is considered one of the greatest Emperors.

Shotoku Taishi

Ruler of Japan that borrowed lots of Chinese culture such as Buddhism and Confusionist idea, but did not accept Chinese rule. 

Wu Zetian

The only official female Emperor of China during the Tang Dynasty. Took power from her two sons and Husband.

Tang Xuanzong

Seen as the Apex Tang Dynasty. Built roads, improved economy, abolished death penalty, etc. His reign was successful but mostly attributed to his advisors who did most of the work for him.

Wang Anshi

A Song dynasty politician and reformer known for implementing major economic and administrative reforms. Highly unpopular with the upper class and removed from office.