Geography of Ancient China
What river is known as the “cradle of Chinese civilization”?
Yellow River
How did mountains and deserts affect China?
They caused isolation
What was a major problem rulers faced in ancient China?
Controlling large populations
What is the Mandate of Heaven?
The idea that rulers are chosen by heaven
What river valley did ancient China develop in?
Yellow River Valley
What natural barrier is found to the south of China?
Himalayas
What was one result of China’s isolation?
Unique culture and inventions
Why was it hard to rule China?
It was very large with many people
What philosophy focused on strict laws and punishments?
Legalism
What did isolation lead to?
Unique culture
What desert helped isolate China from other civilizations?
Gobi Desert
Why did people settle near rivers in ancient China?
Water and fertile soil for farming
What problem did flooding cause for leaders?
Destroyed crops and homes
What philosophy focused on respect and order?
Confucianism
Which system used fear and punishment?
Legalism
Why was the Yellow River both helpful and dangerous?
It provided fertile soil but caused deadly floods
How did geography make trade difficult?
Natural barriers blocked travel
Why did leaders need strong laws?
To maintain order
How did rulers use the Mandate of Heaven?
To justify their power
Which belief system focused on relationships and respect
Confucianism
What nickname was given to the Yellow River because of flooding?
China’s Sorrow
What is one positive and one negative effect of isolation?
Positive—protected from invasion; Negative—limited trade/ideas
What could happen if rulers lost control?
Rebellion or chaos
What happened if a ruler failed under the Mandate of Heaven?
They could be overthrown
how geography influenced BOTH the development and government of ancient China
Geography provided rivers for farming but isolated China, leading to unique culture and requiring strong government systems to manage large populations.