China’s First Civilizations
What are the two major river systems in China?
The Huang He (Yellow River) and the Chang Jiang (Yangtze River)
What is filial piety?
A virtue of respect for one's parents and ancestors.
Why was the Great Wall of China built?
To protect against invasions from northern nomadic tribes such as the Xiongnu.
How did Buddhism spread to China?
Through trade routes such as the Silk Road, brought by monks and merchants.
Who founded the Yuan dynasty and when?
Kublai Khan in 1271.
What nickname was given to the Huang He River?
The "China's Sorrow" due to its frequent and devastating floods.
Why were farmers important in ancient China?
Farmers provided the food necessary for the population and paid taxes that supported the state.
Who were the Xiongnu?
A confederation of nomadic tribes from the steppes north of China, often considered as a threat by Chinese dynasties.
Who was Li Bai?
A famous Tang dynasty poet known for his romantic and nature-inspired works.
How did the Yuan dynasty affect trade and commerce?
The Yuan dynasty improved infrastructure and established a postal system, enhancing trade.
What was the first dynasty of China according to legend?
The Xia Dynasty.
What is the corporate kinship system?
A system where extended families live together and share responsibilities and resources.
Who founded the Han dynasty?
Liu Bang, also known as Emperor Gaozu.
What challenges did the Song dynasty face from the beginning?
Military threats from northern invaders and internal political instability.
Who was Marco Polo, and what was his impact on Europe’s view of China?
His travels and accounts introduced Europeans to the wealth and sophistication of China.
What is the 'North China Plain'?
A large, fertile plain in northern China, which was the cradle of Chinese civilization.
What were the responsibilities of the head of the family?
Managing family affairs, representing the family in social and religious matters, and ensuring the family's well-being.
What were the civil service examinations?
A system of exams to select government officials based on merit rather than family connections.
What was the merit system?
A system of hiring and promoting officials based on abilities and qualifications rather than birthright.
What led to the decline of the Yuan dynasty?
Due to internal rebellions, economic problems, and a loss of control over local warlords.
How did the Shang kings communicate with the gods before making important decisions?
They used oracle bones to divinely interpret messages from gods before making important decisions.
What were the four main social classes in early Chinese society?
Aristocrats, farmers, artisans, and merchants.
What were some inventions during the Han dynasty?
Paper, the seismograph, and advancements in iron metallurgy.
How did Neo-Confucianism influence the Song dynasty?
Reinforced traditional Confucian values and ethics, shaping social and political life.
What was the significance of the Silk Road during the Yuan dynasty?
It facilitated trade between East and West, leading to a cultural and economic exchange.