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

Introduction

• Focus on developments in East Asia from 1200 to 1450.
• Emphasis on the Song Dynasty in China as a major power.

Song Dynasty Overview

• Song Dynasty: Key player in ancient and post-classical world.
• Maintained power through revival of Confucianism and imperial bureaucracy.

Revival of Confucianism

• Historical Context: Official philosophy during Han Dynasty (200 BCE).
• Core Philosophy:
  • Society is hierarchical: fathers > sons, husbands > wives, rulers > subjects.
  • Emphasizes filial piety and the honoring of ancestors/parents.
• Neo-Confucianism:
  • Revival carried over from Tang Dynasty.
  • Integrated Buddhist and Taoist ideas.
  • Demonstrates historical continuity and innovation.

Role of Women in Song China

• Women had subordinate roles in Confucian hierarchy.
• Legal rights restricted; property became husband's.
• Forbidden to remarry if widowed/divorced.
• Foot Binding: Sign of elite status; limited women's mobility.

Imperial Bureaucracy

• Bureaucracy: Governmental body enforcing emperor's will.
• Expansion during Song Dynasty increased rule maintenance.
• Civil service exams based on Confucian texts:
  • Merit-based staffing improved bureaucracy's competence.

Cultural Influence on Neighboring States

• Korea:
  • Maintained tributary relationship with China.
  • Adopted Chinese civil service exams and Confucian principles.
• Japan:
  • Voluntarily adopted Chinese cultural traits (before 1200).
  • Influenced by Chinese bureaucracy, Buddhism, and writing system.
• Vietnam:
  • Tributary relationship with China.
  • Adopted Confucianism, Buddhism, literary techniques, and civil service exams.
  • Higher status of women compared to China.

Buddhism

• Originated in South Asia; spread to China by Han Dynasty.
• Core Beliefs: Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path.
• Main Branches:
  • Theravada: Traditional, monastic focus.
  • Mahayana: Accessible to all, emphasized compassion, Buddha as deity.
  • Tibetan: Mystical practices.
• Chan Buddhism: Distinct Chinese version.

Song Dynasty Economy

• Economy commercialized; embraced paper money and credit systems.
• Industry: Growth in iron and steel production.
• Agricultural Innovations:
  • Introduction of Champa rice from Vietnam: drought-resistant, double-cropping.
  • Led to population explosion due to increased food supply.
• Transportation:
  • Expansion of Grand Canal.
  • Improved shipbuilding (junks) and navigation (compass).

Conclusion

• The Song Dynasty's power and influence were maintained through strategic political, cultural, and economic policies.
• Significant impact on East Asia and neighboring regions during this period.