Qin Dynasty

1085 Words3 Pages

Within the years of 221-206 BCE, the Qin Dynasty rose as a superpower. During this time period, the Warring States Era, Chinese civilization was impacted tremendously in almost every aspect. These hallmarks in history vary from the spreading of Legalism to the birth of the Great Wall of China. Through these countless contributions, the Qin Dynasty was able to revolutionize the Chinese civilization in such a short period of time. After unifying the Chinese empire, Qin Shi Huangdi made several reforms that enhanced Chinese society. Unification of the empire was crucial because it marked the rising of Qin Shi Huangdi(leader of Qin Dynasty) and how he established 40 prefectures, or states (Perkins OL). Soon after extending the empire, Shi Huangdi set up what could be debated as the most important reform in Chinese history. The standardization of weights, measures, and Chinese writing was a crucial step towards enhancing the Chinese society (Barrett 95). With this, mathematics would flourish and communication would be more efficient. Even more inventions expanded upon this which were pottery, agriculture, a calendar, herbal medicine, and a single coinage (Perkins OL). Agriculture was a plus for the Qin Dynasty because surplus amount of food would be produced. When there is a surplus amount of food, people are able to stay healthy and the military will strengthen. The development of fine roads would ease transportation and trade very much. The Qin Dynasty had a great start to their success which opened a beacon of light for China’s future. With the spread of Legalism, the Qin Dynasty began to reach its peak. Legalism was founded by Hanfeizi and was brought to the Qin dynasty. Figures that accomplished this were Li Ssu and and Chao K... ... middle of paper ... ...itionally, the Terra Cotta army displays that the Qin soldiers contained Qin crossbows which were the world’s most powerful weapon at that point of time (Capek 40). As you can see, the Terra Cotta is not only significant in displaying art; however it shows why the Qin was one of the strongest at the time. Through time and effort, the Qin Dynasty was able to flourish China’s civilization in such a short period of time. Many hallmarks of their reign included the unification of China, the spread of Legalism, birth of the Great Wall, and construction of the Terra Cotta army. These were simply the building blocks of a successful future for China. The Qin Dynasty gave a great head start to China’s success, and it is up for future dynasties to continue it. The Qin Dynasty’s contributions left a lasting impact in Chinese history and set the tone for generations to come.

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