Government & Dynasties
What is a dynasty?
A line of rulers from the same family
Who was the Chinese philosopher whose ideas influenced government?
Confucius
Why did farmers move south during the Tang and Song Dynasties?
To escape invasions (like the Mongols)
What invention helped sailors navigate?
Compass
Who mostly traveled along the Silk Road?
Merchants
What was the Mandate of Heaven?
The belief that a ruler had Heaven’s approval to rule
What system was used to choose government officials during the Tang and Song Dynasties?
Civil service examination system
What farming method was used on hillsides?
Terracing
What invention helped spread knowledge quickly?
Printing
How did China treat foreigners during most of the Tang Dynasty?
They were welcoming
When could people overthrow a ruler according to the Mandate of Heaven?
When the ruler governed poorly or unjustly
What subject was often tested on the civil service exams?
Poetry (and Confucian teachings)
What was the main purpose of the Grand Canal?
To connect regions and improve trade
Why were watertight compartments important on ships?
They prevented ships from sinking if one part flooded
Who conquered China and started foreign rule?
The Mongols
What group did early emperors choose to help govern before the civil service system?
Aristocrats
According to Confucius, how should rulers treat their people?
With kindness and fairness
Why did demand for luxury goods increase?
Wealthy landowners had more money
Why did the Chinese develop steel?
It is stronger than iron
What was one effect of Marco Polo’s travels?
Increased European interest in China
What was one weakness of the civil service system?
It valued tradition over new ideas / progress
Why did the civil service system help improve government?
It selected educated, qualified officials based on merit
How did improvements in agriculture affect China’s economy?
More food led to population growth and increased trade
What was an early use of gunpowder-related technology like rockets?
Fireworks
How did China’s attitude toward foreigners change over time?
They sometimes welcomed foreigners and sometimes limited contact