2. Qin Dynasty 221 B.C.E. to 207 B.C.E

3. The Qin  Qin rulers built a strong kingdom with an efficient government in central Asia  King Zheng wanted more  In 221 B.C.E. Qin forces brought down the last of their enemies  China is united for the first time since the warring period began  Customs varied from place to place

4. The First Emperor  Shi Huangdi= First Emperor  Huangdi comes from the gods and legendary rulers of China’s past

5. China under the Qin dynasty, 221-207 B.C.E.

6. Defending the Empire  Centralized Government  Abolishes old “feudal states” and divides China into 36 military districts, each ruled by appointed officials.  Use of inspectors (spies) to keep local officials in check.  Shi Huangdi forces all “noble families” to live in the capital in Xianyang.  Nobles land was divided up amongst the peasants who had to pay very high taxes.

7. LEGALISM  Shi Huangdi adopts Legalism as his primary ruling philosophy  A strong leader and strong legal system  Believed people must be forced to be good  Strict legal code  Censored ideas that were dangerous  Burned books that did not support his ideas  Did not agree with Confucianism

9. Achievements  The Great Wall of China  Single written language  Standardized transportation  Centralization of government  Standard laws  Standard currency  Terracotta soldiers

10. The Great Wall of China

11. TERRA COTTA SOLDIERS

12. Hierarchical “social structures”  The Emperor  Landlords (ruled over the 36 military districts)  Merchants  Peasants

13. Patriarchal Rule  Family roles similar to those found in other early civilizations.  Emphasis on unity and the power of the husband and father.  Women had clearly defined roles. Generally were subordinate.  Women could and did exercise influence behind the scenes.