Lecture #8 Ancient China (A) Unit 1: Early Civilization and World in Transition

Objectives S2C2POA-C: Analyze the enduring Chinese contributions and their impact on later civilizations… A- Development of concepts of government and citizenship B- Scientific, mathematical and technical advances C- Cultural advancements in art, architecture, literature, theater and philosophy

I. Geography Eastern Asia Yellow Sea East China Sea Gobi Desert Fertile Soil Varied Climate

II. Economics Agriculture- farmed rice and tea Taxes- very difficult for the peasants to pay Trade- with Central Asia and India 1. Exports- gold, silver, copper, porcelain

III. Philosophy Confucianism- code of conduct based on high moral conduct. By Confucius 1. Used in social and political life 2. Analects- Confucian philosophy organized into one book by his followers.

3. Virtues- loyalty, courtesy, hard work & kindness 4. 5 Relationships- ruler & subject, parent & child, husband & wife, older brother & younger brother, friend & friend

6. Emphasized family relationships 5. Belief- if everyone obeyed his/her duties then a balanced society would occur. 6. Emphasized family relationships 7. Huge impact on Chinese government.

B. Taoism Lao-tse- founder of Taoism The Way and Its Power- books based on Taoism. Tao- universal force that could not be defined only felt. Stressed simplicity, meditation, and nature Government- one that governed least

C. Legalism Han Fei Tzu- founder Believed that people were not capable of honesty, loyalty or trust. Believed in an absolute ruler- has all power. Rich rewards for those who obeyed. Harsh punishment for those who disobeyed.

III. Politics Many dynasties throughout China’s history (Sui, Tang, Sung, Han, etc.) 221- first emperor of China comes to power. Influenced by the different philosophies (Confucianism, Taoism, and Legalism) Forbidden City- includes palaces of past emperors. No one could enter except the royal family!!

1. Started under the Han dynasty 2. Education program D. Civil Service 1. Started under the Han dynasty 2. Education program 3. Studied Confucius 4. Reading and speaking Chinese, calligraphy, memorization of the Chinese code of law.

1. Tested candidates for government positions. E. Civil Service Examination 1. Tested candidates for government positions. 2. Open to anyone, usually sons of wealthy could afford it. 3. Series of tests over local, provincial, and national levels. 4. Confucian ideas emphasized. 5. Created political and social stability.