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

Introduction

• Focus on developments in East Asia, specifically China, during the period 1200-1450.
• Emphasis on the Song Dynasty and its significance.

Song Dynasty (960-1279)

• Known for their significant power and influence.
• Main focus on how they maintained and justified their power.

Maintenance and Justification of Power

1. Revival of Confucianism

   • Confucianism: Official state philosophy since Han Dynasty (~200 BCE).
   • Promoted hierarchical society: Fathers > Sons, Husbands > Wives, Rulers > Subjects.
   • Emphasis on filial piety: Respect for ancestors and parents, indirectly supporting emperor reverence.
   • Neo-Confucianism: Blended with Buddhist and Daoist ideas, showing continuity and innovation.
   • Impact on women: Subordinate position in society, legal restrictions, and foot binding.

2. Imperial Bureaucracy

   • Bureaucracy: Governmental entity executing emperor's will.
   • Expansion during Song to maintain rule across vast empire.
   • Civil Service Examination based on Confucian classics.
     • Ensured most qualified men took bureaucratic positions.
     • Jobs awarded by merit, increasing efficiency.

Cultural Influence

• China's cultural influence on neighboring states:
  1. Korea
     • Tributary relationship with China.
     • Adoption of Confucian principles and civil service exam.
     • Greater marginalization of women under Chinese influence.
  2. Japan
     • Voluntary adoption of Chinese cultural traits.
     • Influenced by Chinese imperial bureaucracy and Buddhism.
  3. Vietnam
     • Tributary relationship similar to Korea.
     • Adoption of Confucianism, Buddhism, literary techniques.
     • Higher status of women than in China.

Buddhism in East Asia

• Originated in South Asia, spread to China by Han Dynasty.
• Key concepts: Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path, karma, rebirth.
• Different branches adapted:
  1. Theravada Buddhism: Close to original, monk-centric.
  2. Mahayana Buddhism: Accessible to all, compassionate, Buddha as a god-like figure.
  3. Tibetan Buddhism: Mystical practices, unique deities.
  4. Chan Buddhism (China-specific): Blend of Buddhism with local culture.

Song Economy

• Known for significant prosperity, began under Tang Dynasty.
• Four key aspects:
  1. Commercialization
     • Production of goods for world market.
     • Use of paper money, credit, promissory notes.
  2. Iron and Steel Production
     • Large-scale manufacturing for war, trade, agriculture.
  3. Agricultural Innovations
     • Introduction of Champa rice from Vietnam.
     • Drought-resistant, double harvests, led to population growth.
  4. Transportation Innovations
     • Expansion of Grand Canal.
     • Magnetic compass, improved shipbuilding techniques.

Conclusion

• Significant developments in Song Dynasty impacted China and neighboring regions culturally, economically, and politically.
• China’s influence on Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and the role of Buddhism.
• Economic policies and innovations contributed to prosperity.