Chinese Dynasties
Belief Systems
Vocabulary
Historical Figures
100

This dynasty was the first dynasty of a unified Chinese Empire

What is the Qin Dynasty

100

This belief system is known for its strict control and harsh punishments against those who act out

What is Legalism

100

This idea gives a dynasty the authority from the gods to rule China, as long as they continue to promote peace and prosperity.

What is the Mandate of Heaven

100

The founder of the Qin dynasty and the first emperor of a unified China

Who is Shi Huangdi or Qin Shi Huang

200

This dynasty is often called the "golden age" of China

What is the Han Dynasty

200

According to Daoism, these concepts represent opposing forces found in nature

What are Yin and Yang

200

The hierarchy of appointed government officials who performed a variety of tasks

What is Bureaucracy

200

This philosopher is known for his belief in respect for your elders, social harmony, good behavior, and the importance of education

Who is Confucius or Kong Fuzi

300

This dynasty laid the foundations for later dynasties, eventually collapsing into the Warring States Period

What is the Zhou Dynasty

300

In Confucianism, proper behavior is known by this term

What is Li 

300

The vast trade network connecting Asia to the rest of the world, established during the Han Dynasty

What is the Silk Road

300

Ancient Chinese philosopher who believed that harmony with nature, self-reflection, and relaxed laws would bring peace in China

Who is Laozi

400

This dynasty created the civil service exam, to select government officials based on merit rather than family connections or wealth

What is the Han Dynasty

400

The ideas and sayings of Confucianism are compiled in this book

What is Analects or Selected Sayings

400

A system of government where important positions are filled based on family connections

What is Nepotism or Nepotistic 

400

Ancient Chinese philosopher and former prince who believed that humans were naturally evil, and that they needed to be controlled through strict laws

Who is Han Fei

500

This dynasty was the first "historical" dynasty of China, and was overthrown by the Zhou

What is the Shang Dynasty

500

According to Confucianism, this is the basic relationship in society that emphasizes respect and care for one's parents and ancestors.

What is Filial Piety

500

A system of government where officials are appointed based on their skills and achievements

What is Meritocracy 

500

Ancient Chinese peasant who led an uprising against the Qin Dynasty, overthrowing them to create the Han Dynasty

Who is Liu Bang or Emperor Gaozu