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

Introduction

• Focus on East Asia from 1200-1450, with China as a central power.
• Emphasis on the Song Dynasty's maintenance and justification of power.

Song Dynasty's Rule

Methods of Power Maintenance

1. Revival of Confucianism

   • Originated during Han Dynasty (200 BCE).
   • Society viewed hierarchically: fathers > sons, husbands > wives, rulers > subjects.
   • Filial piety emphasized to honor ancestors, aiding loyalty to the emperor.
   • Neo-Confucianism: influenced by Buddhist and Taoist ideas, showing both continuity and innovation.
   • Women's Subordination:
     • Restricted rights, property transfer to husbands, no remarriage for widows.
     • Practice of foot binding as a status symbol.

2. Imperial Bureaucracy

   • Government officials enforced emperor's will across China.
   • Civil service examination based on Confucian classics ensured merit-based staffing.
   • Increased bureaucracy's scope enhanced governance efficiency.

Cultural Influence

Regional Influence

1. Korea

   • Tributary relationship with China, adopting some cultural elements.
   • Civil service exams and Confucian principles, but with greater marginalization of women.

2. Japan

   • Adopted Chinese cultural traits voluntarily.
   • Influenced by Chinese bureaucracy and Buddhism.
   • Selective in cultural adoption.

3. Vietnam

   • Similar tributary relationship as Korea.
   • Adoption of Confucianism and Buddhism, with higher status of women than in China.
   • No practice of foot binding.

Buddhism in East Asia

• Originated in South Asia, spread to China by Han Dynasty.
• Theravada Buddhism: Focus on monks and cycle of birth and death.
• Mahayana Buddhism: Available to all, emphasized compassion.
• Tibetan Buddhism: Mystical practices, including prostration.
• Chinese Chan Buddhism developed during Song Dynasty.

Song Dynasty Economy

Economic Prosperity Factors

1. Commercialization

   • Excess goods sold on world market.
   • Use of paper money, credit, and promissory notes.

2. Iron and Steel Production

   • Large scale manufacturing for armor, coins, tools.

3. Agricultural Innovations

   • Iron plows and rakes.
   • Introduction of Champa rice (drought-resistant, harvested twice a year) led to population growth.

4. Transportation Innovations

   • Expansion of the Grand Canal reducing trade costs.
   • Magnetic compass and shipbuilding innovations enhanced sea trade.

Conclusion

• Song Dynasty was influential culturally and economically in East Asia during 1200-1450.
• For further study, refer to AP World Heimler Review Guide.