Heimler’s History: AP World History - China 1200-1450

Overview of China's Importance

• China as a major world power by 1000 CE, similar to the notion of "Don’t mess with Texas."
• By 960, China was fragmented into regional kingdoms as the Tang Dynasty's influence waned.

The Song Dynasty (960-1279)

Formation and Structure

• Zhao Kuangyin unified these kingdoms into the Song Dynasty.
• Established a state structure lasting another thousand years.
• Six departments: personnel, finance, rites, army, justice, and public works.
• The Censorate oversaw departments, ensuring no corruption.

Influence of Confucianism

• Confucianism as a continuity in Chinese culture, emphasizing a hierarchical society.
• Revival and expansion of the civil service exam to select bureaucrats based on Confucian ideals.
• Led to a shift from hereditary aristocracy to scholarly leaders.

Economic Developments

• Chinese merchants engaged in extensive trade across Afro-Eurasia.
• Transition to a commercialized society with goods produced for distant markets.
• Significant iron production, comparable to Europe in the 18th century.
• Expansion led to the introduction of paper money due to insufficient precious metals.

Technological Innovations

• Gunpowder invented by Daoist alchemists, initially used for fireworks.
• Eventually adapted for military use by Song leaders.

Cultural Influence and Interactions

• China greatly influenced neighboring regions, notably Japan.
• Japanese culture, including architecture, heavily influenced by China.

Religious Influence

• Buddhism, particularly Mahayana Buddhism from Vietnam, spread to China through trade routes.
• Mahayana Buddhism included deities and was more religious compared to its original atheistic form.

Conclusion

• China's population, agriculture, and manufacturing made it the wealthiest empire.
• Language, Confucian ideals, and cultural depth made it the most unified nation.
• Key takeaway: Do not underestimate China's influence and power.