Han Empire

Revival of Confucianism First Han Emperor, Gaozu, lifted the ban on books and scholars Some books were rewritten and others were never destroyed Confucianism and rule by example were adopted Legalism was NOT abandoned altogether Strict laws and punishments was joined with the emperor ruling like a father to his people by example. Strict laws and punishments was joined with the emperor ruling like a father to his people by example.

Liu Bang Established a centralized government Liu Bang had authority over all Lowered taxes Eased harsh punishments Brought stability and peace

Empress Lu Controlled the throne by naming one infant after another and acted as regent for each one Regent-controlling adult when child assumes a throne

Wudi Conquered lands and made allies of the enemies of his enemies Setup civil service for people who wanted government jobs

Wang Mang Minted new money to relive shortage Established public granaries to feed poor Tried to redistribute land from rich to poor

Paper is Invented Increased the availability of books Helped spread education Promoted expansion of government bureaucracy by producing easily stored records

Silk’s a Secret Helped to create worldwide demand for silk Expanded Chinese commerce all the way to Rome Created the “Silk Road” Becomes major trading network Becomes major trading network

Han Empire Expands Government recognizes need to unify the empire and promotes various methods of assimilation Examples: Intermarriage, schools to teach conquered peoples, and appointing locals to government posts Examples: Intermarriage, schools to teach conquered peoples, and appointing locals to government posts

Rich v. Poor Political instability increases Economic weakness and imbalance topple the empire Rich Poor