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

Introduction

• Focus on East Asia, particularly China, from 1200 to 1450.
• China, specifically the Song Dynasty, was a major power during this period.

Song Dynasty Overview

• The Song Dynasty was a significant power in ancient and post-classical China.
• Key focus: How the Song Dynasty maintained and justified its power.

Maintenance and Justification of Power

1. Revival of Confucianism

   • Confucianism became the state philosophy during the Han Dynasty (c. 200 BCE).
   • Society was seen as hierarchical: fathers > sons, husbands > wives, rulers > subjects.
   • Emphasized filial piety: honoring ancestors and parents to also honor the Emperor.
   • Neo-Confucianism: A revival with Buddhist and Taoist influences during Song rule.

2. Imperial Bureaucracy

   • Bureaucracy enabled the Emperor to enforce rules across China.
   • Expansion of bureaucracy during Song period.
   • Civil service examinations based on Confucian texts for bureaucratic positions.
   • Established a merit-based system, increasing competency and efficiency.

Social Implications

• Women in Song China were subordinate due to Confucian ideals.
  • Legal restrictions, property rights transferred to husbands.
  • Practices like foot binding among elites as a status symbol.

Cultural Influence on Neighboring States

1. Korea

   • Maintained political independence through tributary system with China.
   • Adopted Confucian principles and civil service exams.
   • Cultural influence mostly affected elite society.

2. Japan

   • Voluntarily adopted Chinese cultural traits, separated by ocean.
   • Major cultural borrowings before 1200, including bureaucracy and Buddhism.

3. Vietnam

   • Similar tributary relationship with China.
   • Adopted Confucianism, Buddhism, and civil service exams.
   • Women had higher status compared to China.

Buddhism in East Asia

• Originated in South Asia, spread to China by Han Dynasty.
• Key concepts: Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
• Branches of Buddhism
  • Theravada: Focuses on monastic life and escape from birth-death cycle.
  • Mahayana: Accessible to all, emphasized compassion, Buddha as a godly figure.
  • Tibetan: Mystical practices, unique to Tibet.
• Chan Buddhism: A distinct Chinese version developed during Song.

Song Economy

• Economic Prosperity
  • Originated in Tang Dynasty, expanded in Song period.
  • Commercialization: Surplus production sold on world markets.
  • Iron and Steel Production: Crucial for trade and agriculture tools.
  • Agricultural Innovations
    • Introduction of Champa rice from Vietnam, doubled yield, population growth.
  • Transportation
    • Expanded Grand Canal enabled cheaper trade.
    • Innovations like the magnetic compass and improved ship designs (junks).

Conclusion

• The Song Dynasty's power was supported by Confucian ideals, bureaucratic efficiency, economic prosperity, and cultural influence across East Asia.