Unit 1: The Global Tapestry (1200-1450) - Classical China (Sui, Tang, Song Dynasties)

Flashcards covering the key aspects of Classical China, including the Han, Tang, and Song Dynasties, focusing on government, economy, inventions, and social structures.

What characterized the Han and Tang Dynasties in Classical China?

Confucianism and civil service exams were prominent during these dynasties.

What religious and social changes occurred in China during the Tang Dynasty?

Buddhism spread out of China, and the Scholar Gentry emerged.

What were the dates of the Song Dynasty?

960-1279 CE

What was a significant change in China's government during the Song Dynasty?

The bureaucracy expanded, creating more government positions and extending the civil service exams to lower status men.

What was a problem for the Song Dynasty?

Too many people in government led to a dried-up surplus, requiring the use of flying money.

What impact did increased trade have on the Song Dynasty's economy?

Trade across the Silk Road increased, leading to the creation of "flying money," a precursor to banks.

What were the key trading items from China during the Song Dynasty?

Porcelain and silk

What is proto-industrialization?

Phase that precedes and enables full industrialization later.

What were some key inventions developed in China?

Guns and gunpowder, magnetic compass, and junks.

What were the main social classes in China?

Aristocracy, Scholar Gentry, Farmers, and Merchants.

Who were the aristocracy in Chinese society?

Landowners who inherit wealth.

Who made up the Scholar Gentry?

Individuals who passed the civil service exams and worked for the government.

What is a meritocracy?

A system where you could earn your way up the social ladder.

Why were merchants considered the lowest class in Chinese society?

Considered the lowest class because they didn't produce anything.