1. The Rise of the Qin Dynasty

2. Opening Activity: In pairs, paraphrase each quote
Opening Activity: In pairs, paraphrase each quote. Then, decide whether you agree or disagree, and explain why.
“Lead the people by virtue and restrain them by the rules of good taste, and the people will have a sense of shame, and moreover will become good” -Confucius
“The only way to achieve order is to pass strict laws and enforce them with harsh punishments. Strength, not goodness, is a ruler's greatest tool… The ruler alone possesses power, wielding it like lightning or like thunder.“ - Hanfeizi
Which is better for the people?
Which is more efficient?
Which will better demand the adherence of the people?
Which ruler will accomplish more during his reign?

3. Legalism: The Philosophy of the Qin
Created by Hanfeizi around 3rd Century B.C.
Another Philosophy of the “Warring States” Period.
People can only be brought to follow the right path by harsh laws and stiff punishments (need incentive).
Believe in strong leadership with strict rules.
“The nature of man is evil…”

4. The Rise of the Qin Dynasty
A Feudal Power Struggle
Recall that the Zhou dynasty was ruled by powerful warlords.
Warlords began to ignore the emperor.
Called “Period of the Warring States”
403 to 221 B.C.

5. Qin Shi Huangdi Comes to Power
Came to throne in 246 B.C. at age 13.
221 B.C. defeated last of his rivals.
Qin Shi Huangdi = “First Qin Emperor”
Establishes Legalist State
A Paranoid Emperor
Two carriages to confuse assassins.
Many palaces – never slept in the same one two nights in a row!

6. Partner Activity
Guiding Question: Should Qin Shi Huangdi be remembered as a great or horrible leader?
Read and answer the following questions:
What elements of Legalism can you see in Qin Shi Huangdi’s empire?
For what cultural accomplishments should the Qin dynasty be remembered?