AP World History: Developments in East Asia (1200-1450)

Key Power Dynamics in Song China

• Song Dynasty was a major power in East Asia.
• Maintained and justified power through:
  • Revival of Confucianism
    • Neo-Confucianism: inspired by Buddhist and Taoist ideas, emphasizing hierarchical relationships.
    • Filial Piety: Honoring ancestors as a societal training for honoring rulers.
  • Imperial Bureaucracy
    • Expansion of bureaucracy to enforce emperor's will.
    • Civil Service Exam: Based on Confucian classics, ensuring merit-based governmental positions.

Social Hierarchies and Confucian Influence

• Confucianism promoted social hierarchy; rulers greater than subjects, men greater than women.
• Subordination of Women
  • Limited legal rights; property became husband's.
  • Practice of foot binding among elite as a status symbol.

Influence on Neighboring States

• Korea
  • Maintained tributary relationship with China.
  • Adopted Confucian principles and civil service exams.
• Japan
  • Voluntary cultural adoption from China, including Buddhism and writing systems.
• Vietnam
  • Tributary relationship; adopted Confucianism and civil service exam.
  • Higher status of women compared to China.

Buddhism's Role in China

• Original Buddhism from South Asia spread to China by the Han Dynasty.
• Buddhism Branches
  • Theravada: Focused on monks, original form.
  • Mahayana: Accessible to all, emphasized compassion.
  • Tibetan Buddhism: Mystical practices.
• Chan Buddhism: Chinese variant of Buddhism under the Song Dynasty.

Economic Prosperity in the Song Dynasty

• Began during the Tang Dynasty, continued under the Song.
• Commercialization: Use of paper money, credit, and promissory notes.
• Iron and Steel Production: For armor, coins, and tools.
• Agricultural Innovations
  • Introduction of Champa Rice: Drought-resistant, double harvest.
  • Led to population growth.
• Transportation Developments
  • Expansion of the Grand Canal.
  • Improvements in shipping technologies like magnetic compass and junk ship design.

Conclusion

• The Song Dynasty was a period of significant cultural, social, and economic developments in China, which had lasting influences on neighboring states and set the framework for future advancements in the region.