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

Introduction

• Focus on China's Song Dynasty (1200-1450) as a major power.
• Key topics: Song Dynasty's power maintenance and justification, cultural influence, Buddhism, and the economy.

Song Dynasty

Power Maintenance and Justification

1. Revival of Confucianism

   • Confucianism became state philosophy during Han Dynasty (200 BCE).
   • Hierarchical society: unequal relationships (e.g., rulers > subjects).
   • Filial piety: honoring ancestors/parents as a training to honor the emperor.
   • Neo-Confucianism: revival with Buddhist and Taoist influences during Song Dynasty.
   • Used to maintain hierarchical society and justify rulers’ power.

2. Imperial Bureaucracy

   • Bureaucracy carried out emperor’s will across China.
   • Civil service examination based on Confucian Classics.
   • Merit-based staffing led to a competent bureaucracy.

Impact on Women

• Women were subordinate under Confucianism.
• Legal rights restricted; property owned by husbands.
• Foot binding practiced among elites as a status symbol.

Cultural Influence on Asia

Korea

• Tributary relationship with China.
• Adopted civil service exams and Confucian principles.
• Influence mostly among elites.

Japan

• Voluntary adoption of cultural traits from China (e.g., Buddhism, writing system).

Vietnam

• Tributary relationship similar to Korea.
• Adopted Confucianism, Buddhism, Chinese literary techniques.
• Women less marginalized compared to China.

Buddhism in China

• Originated in South Asia; spread to China by Han Dynasty.
• Different branches:
  • Theravada Buddhism: Originated in Sri Lanka; focus on monastic life.
  • Mahayana Buddhism: Emphasized availability to all, compassion, Buddha as a deity.
  • Tibetan Buddhism: Emphasized mystical practices.
• Chan Buddhism: Chinese version developed during Song Dynasty.

Song Economy

1. Commercialization

   • Overproduction for world markets; use of paper money, credit.

2. Iron and Steel Production

   • Significant output for military, trade, and agriculture.

3. Agricultural Innovations

   • Introduction of Champa rice: drought-resistant, harvested twice a year.
   • Led to population growth.

4. Transportation Innovations

   • Expanded Grand Canal for cheaper trade.
   • Magnetic compass and shipbuilding improvements (e.g., junks).