The 6 Themes of Empire Building (Notes) The 1st Age of Empires The 6 Themes of Empire Building (Notes)

First: Create a Notebook Title page for Ch 4 - like below Title: The First Age of Empires 1750-200 B.C. Section 1: The Egyptian & Nubian Empires Section 2: The Assyrian Empire Section 3: The Persian Empire Section 4: The Chinese (Qin Dynasty) Empire

I. What is an Empire? … An Empire is a political unit (like a country) in which a centralized government establishes control over previously independent people.

II. What makes for a successful Empire? A successful Empire must run efficiently to control its diverse population and large territory. To do this, it needs to have the Six Themes of Strong Empires / Empire Building: Centralized Government Leadership Technology Control of Land / The Conquered Good Economy Adaptability

1. Strong Government Empires need strong governments = centralized. A Centralized Government is where the power to govern & make laws is absolute – “in the center” and has control over each part. An Example: the U.S. federal government (Congress, the President, & The Supreme Court) has power over the states – like raising (or lowering) your taxes. Persia (skip 2 lines)

2. Strong Leaders Empire’s need strong leaders who are respected and can control the Empire.  plan for the future & develop strategies to solve problems.  lead armies and win battles (protect the people). Persia (skip 2 lines)

3. Technology Persia (skip 2 lines) Empires need to promote advanced technology: Technology is is defined as ways in which people apply knowledge, tools, & inventions to meet their needs. Technology gives you an advantage over your enemies. “he/she with the best toys wins!” Technology improves a people’s standard of living. Ex: Technology can also improve the productivity of labor causing workers to produce more goods (to trade or use) this improves your quality of life. Persia (skip 2 lines)

4. Control the Conquered Persia (skip 2 lines) Empires need to control conquered lands & people! Empires usually control people in one of two ways: a) With an Iron Fist: through threats of harsh punishment or worse. b) With Respect: through respecting native laws and customs. Persia (skip 2 lines)

5. Empires need a Good Economy The Economy = All things money ($$ = power!) When thinking economics, think key words like trade, resources, thriving cities, & jobs. A good economy keeps the people happy, they have a job, enough food to eat, & can raise a family etc.! When people are starving and are not secure they might as well rebel, why pay the taxes without any benefit? Persia (skip 2 lines)

6. Willing to Adapt An Empire must be willing to adapt to new situations. Problems will always come up – if you adapt you survive! How to find Adaptability in an Empire? Your example should solve a problem – if it solved the problem – it shows adaptability! Adapt and overcome! Persia (skip 2 lines)