Han_and_Rome

Introduction to Han and Rome

• Exploration of the significance of the Han and Roman Empires in history.

• Both empires showcased the extension of globalism during their reigns.

Why Focus on Han and Rome?

• Globalization Origins:

  • The Roman Empire ended the Hellenistic world but embraced its legacy, continuing the globalization trends.

  • The Silk Road initiated in Chang’an, China (Han Dynasty).

  • At the beginning of the Common Era, approximately half of humanity was under two major political structures: Roman and Han Empires.

Comparative Analysis of Han and Rome

• Size and Timeframe:

  • Comparable in area and population, both lasted roughly between 221 BCE - 220 CE (Han) and 200 BCE - 395 CE (Rome).

• Formation Circumstances:

  • Both empires arose from political fragmentation leading to unification under strong central authority.

• Similar Experiences:

  • They promoted assimilation of diverse populations, provided regional stability, and were governed by centralized rule.

Characteristics of Global Empires

• Territory Control:

  • Han (5.7 million km²) and Rome (6 million km²) controlled vast territories, impacting diverse populations.

• Cultural Influence:

  • Their cultural legacies extended beyond their geographical boundaries, shaping identities (e.g., "Han" synonymous with Chinese culture).

• Continued Legacies:

  • Successor states (Byzantine, Russian Empire) derived pride from their connection to the Roman Empire.

The Qin State's Unification Efforts

• Conflict Era (5th-3rd Century BCE):

  • Rise of the Qin state amidst chaos in China, led by King Zheng who unified China in 221 BCE.

• Governance:

  • Abolished feudalism, instituted centralized governance with provinces and strict legalism.

  • Standardized weights, measures, currency, and writing, crucial for administration and trade.

Legacy of the Qin Dynasty

• Short-lived Dynasty:

  • Despite its innovations, the Qin faced instability, leading to rebellion and collapse by 206 BCE.

• Firsts in Chinese History:

  • Standardization of writing, laws, and administrative practices set foundations for future dynasties.

Brutal Reality of Qin Rule

• Archaeological Findings:

  • Bamboo slips revealed insights into life and governance during the Qin dynasty, including daily administrative records.

Transition to the Han Dynasty

• Foundation of Han Dynasty:

  • Liu Bang emerged as the founder after the collapse of the Qin, portrayed as a hero against the oppressive Qin rule.

• Early Governance:

  • Han shifted from Legalism to Daoist thought, promoting lesser state intervention and peace.

Confucianism's Role in Han Governance

• State Ideology:

  • Emperor Wu adopted Confucianism, establishing it as the dominant ideology.

  • Emphasized moral governance, responsibility for rulers, and the concept of the Mandate of Heaven.

Scholar-Gentry as Power Brokers

• Role in Governance:

  • Scholars advised emperors, creating a balance against absolute power.

  • Establishment of the Imperial University in 136 BCE to nurture Confucian ideals and educate bureaucrats.

Expansion of the Han Empire

• Strategic Growth:

  • The Han emperor expanded territory through military strength and diplomatic relations, controlling vital areas like the Silk Road.

Origins and Expansion of Rome

• Founding of Rome:

  • Established around 625 BCE, initially a city-state, responding to Etruscan invasions.

• Territorial Growth:

  • Expanded remarkably to encompass 6.5 million km² by 114 CE, with a significant population increase.

Historical Phases of Rome

• Three Stages:

  • Period of Kings (625-510 BCE): Development of an early constitution.

  • Republican Rome (510-31 BCE): Growth and territorial expansion without monarchical rule.

  • Roman Empire Period (27 BCE - 393 CE).

Transition from Monarchy to Republic

• End of Monarchy:

  • The last king's tyranny triggered popular revolt, leading to the establishment of the Republic.

Mechanisms of Roman Political Stability

• Checks and Balances:

  • Political systems were designed to limit power concentration, promoting stability and expansion.

Roman System of Governance

• Structure:

  • Developed into a mixed constitution with assemblies and magistrates managing power.

Evaluating Roman Democracy

• Electoral Limitations:

  • Example of limited democracy: only a small fraction of the populace could vote.

Military Integration in Roman Expansion

• Economic and Military Synergy:

  • Military success linked to economic integration, allowing for citizenship extension and resource acquisition.

Political Dynamics of Roman Emperors

• Imperial Instability:

  • High assassination rates among emperors due to political and military pressures, including environmental conditions contributing to unrest.

Han and Rome Contact

• Bilateral Ambassadorships:

  • Early attempts for diplomatic engagement recorded but often hindered by surrounding empires.