Geography
This desert, one of the largest in Asia, formed a natural barrier to China’s north.
Gobi Desert
This was the main social class that produced China's most important export, silk, which was a major trade good along the Silk Road.
Peasants/Farmers
This ethical and philosophical system, developed by Confucius, focused on proper behavior, respect for elders, and social harmony.
Confucianism
This luxurious fabric, produced only in China for centuries, was one of the most highly sought-after goods on the Silk Road.
Silk
This monumental structure, begun during the Qin Dynasty, remains one of the most iconic legacies of Ancient China.
The Great Wall of China
The Grand Canal, connecting northern and southern China, linked this body of water with the Yellow River.
Yangtze
Known for their skill and artistry, this group was responsible for making items like bronze tools and pottery.
Artisans/Craftsman
This ancient Chinese philosophy emphasized harmony with nature and the importance of balance through yin and yang.
Doaism/Taoism
The Han Dynasty established military garrisons along this trade route to protect merchants from bandits and hostile tribes.
The Silk Road
This invention, originally used for entertainment, later became a critical component of weapons technology worldwide.
Gunpowder
This mountain range, located to the southwest, form a natural border between China and India.
(Hint: Mt Everest)
The Himalayas
At the bottom of the social structure, this group was viewed with suspicion for earning their wealth through trade rather than labor.
Merchants
This philosophy, influential during the Han Dynasty, taught that a well-ordered society could only be achieved through strict laws and harsh punishments.
Legalism
This precious metal, traded from the Roman Empire to China, was often exchanged for silk and other luxury goods.
Gold
Emperor Qin Shi Huang's army of life-sized warriors was created to protect him in the afterlife. What is this army called?
Terracotta Warriors
Terracotta Army
How did the geography of ancient China impact the development of ancient Chinese society?
Geographical features offered natural protection and allowed Chinese culture to develop relatively isolated from outside influences.
The emperor, considered the "Son of Heaven," ruled with this divine right to govern.
The Mandate of Heaven
This term refers to the balance of opposing forces in nature, such as light and dark, male and female, which was central to Daoist beliefs.
Yin and Yang
This famous military treatise, attributed to a Chinese general during the Spring and Autumn period, influenced Chinese warfare strategies for centuries.
This Chinese invention, essential to modern communication, allowed for the spread of knowledge and ideas throughout the world.
(Hint: We use it every day in school)
Paper
Why does the Yellow River turn yellow?
Because of the loess sediment, often stirred up by the regular flooding of the river.
Ancient Chinese emperors were often advised by this group of highly educated men, trained in Confucian philosophy.
Scholars
The Four Noble Truths were associated with which major religion in ancient China?
Buddhism
This group from the north were known for their conflict with ancient China
The Mongols
Name 5 inventions credited to ancient China
Paper, kite, umbrella, gunpowder, acupuncture, rocket, toothbrush, silk, compass