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

Introduction

• Focus on the Song Dynasty in China as a major power in the ancient and post-classical world.
• Exploration of how the Song Dynasty maintained and justified its power.

Song Dynasty's Maintenance of Power

Revival of Confucianism

• Confucianism: Official Chinese state philosophy since Han Dynasty (~200 BCE).
  • Hierarchical society: fathers > sons, husbands > wives, rulers > subjects.
  • Filial piety: Honoring ancestors and parents, translating into respect for the emperor.
• Neo-Confucianism: Revival during Tang Dynasty, carried into Song rule.
  • Incorporation of Buddhist and Taoist ideas.
  • Demonstrates continuity and innovation.
• Impact on Women:
  • Subordinate position in society, restrictive legal rights.
  • Practices like foot binding among elite as a status symbol.

Imperial Bureaucracy

• Bureaucracy: Government entity to implement the emperor's will.
• Growth in scope during Song Dynasty.
  • Civil service examination based on Confucian Classics.
  • Merit-based staffing increased efficiency and competency.

China's Cultural Influence on Neighboring States

Korea

• Tributary Relationship: Korean officials' homage to Chinese emperor.
• Adoption of Chinese civil service exams and Confucian principles.
  • Mostly affected elite society.

Japan

• Voluntary Cultural Adoption: Not threatened by invasion.
• Adoption of Chinese bureaucratic structures, Buddhism, and writing systems.

Vietnam

• Tributary Relationship: Similar to Korea, but more independence.
• Adoption of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Chinese literary techniques.
  • Women had higher status than in China.

Buddhism in China

• Origin: South Asia, spread to China by Han Dynasty.
• Core Teachings: Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path.
  • Incorporation of Hindu concepts like karma and rebirth.
• Variations of Buddhism:
  • Theravada: Close to original, focused on monastic life.
  • Mahayana: Teachings for all, Buddha as a god-like figure.
  • Tibetan: Mystical practices, emphasis on deity imaginings.
• Chan Buddhism: Distinct Chinese version.

The Song Economy

• Origins: Prosperity trend began in Tang Dynasty.

Factors of Economic Prosperity

1. Commercialization:

   • Production surplus sold on world market.
   • Use of paper money, credit, and promissory notes.

2. Iron and Steel Production:

   • Increased manufacturing for military, commerce, and agriculture.

3. Agricultural Innovations:

   • Introduction of drought-resistant Champa rice from Vietnam.
   • Resulted in population growth and stability.

4. Transportation Innovations:

   • Expansion of the Grand Canal linking Yellow and Yangtze Rivers.
   • Improvements in navigation via magnetic compass and ship design.

Conclusion

• The Song Dynasty leveraged Confucian ideals, an efficient bureaucracy, and innovative economic practices to maintain its power and influence both domestically and across neighboring states.