Crash Course World History: China Lecture Notes

Introduction to China

• China frequently discussed in media as potentially outpacing the U.S.
• Focus on how storytelling shapes historical narratives.

The First Modern State

• Considered first modern state due to its centralized government and bureaucracy.
• Existed from 150 BCE to 1911 CE.

Writing of History in China

• Chinese among first to write history, including the Confucian Classic, Shujing.
• History affected by dynastic perspectives.

Dynastic Periods

• Dynasties: ruled by emperors from continuous family lines.
• End of Dynasties: either through lack of heirs or rebellion.

Major Chinese Dynasties

• Shang: Overthrown by the Zhou.
• Zhou: Introduced Mandate of Heaven.
• Qin: Unified China; known for brutality.
• Han: Set patterns for future dynasties, ruled with Confucian principles.
• Sui, Tang, Song: Periods of commercial growth and cultural development.
• Yuan: Mongol rule, unpopular.
• Ming: Known for Great Wall and vases.
• Qing: Last dynasty, ended in 1911.

Mandate of Heaven

• Concept starting with Zhou Dynasty.
• Explained dynastic changes through divine approval or disapproval.
• Behaviors like orgies or cannibalism seen as losing Mandate.

Confucianism

• Confucius: Developed a system for stable society during Warring States.
• Emphasized returning to sage emperors' moral examples.
• Central to government and education.

Key Confucian Concepts

• Hierarchical Relationships: Father-son relationship most important.
• Filial Piety: Respect and duty between father and son.
• Junzi: Ideal "superior man" for society's order.
• Ren and Li: Propriety and ritual, essential for Junzi.

Historical Narratives

• Written by Confucian scholars, reflecting biases towards "proper behavior."
• Confucian classics enforced moral behavior standards.

Conclusion

• Importance of storytelling in history.
• Reflection on the role of historians and their influence on historical narrative.

Miscellaneous

• Mention of fictional Xia Dynasty and beloved figures in history.
• Episodes and production crew credits.