Political leader of a territory containing several countries or groups of people

Belonging or related to the emperor

A line of rulers descended from one family

A highly complex body of workers with many levels of authority

A military leader operating outside the control of the government

a ruling class or noble families

a test given to qualify candidates for positions in the government

Rule by officials of proven merit

According to this Chinese idea, Heaven chooses a particular dynasty to rule. They believe that Heaven supported the dynasty for as long as the emperor ruled as well. If any natural disasters occurred, it was because the Heaven was displeased.

Held power for more than 400 years, 206 BCE to 220 CE. It was a golden age for China Corruption in the bureaucracy led to the downfall of this dynasty

Rules from 529 to 618. Led to the reunification of China

Ruled from 618 to 907 Led to economic development and growth. Many inventions and discoveries also occurred.

Ruled from 960 to 1279. Economic growth and development along with many inventions. Created the meritocracy of the government.

Mongol Leader who took the title of emperor of China. He called his dynasty the Yuan dynasty. Ruled for nearly 100 years from 1279 to 1368

1368 to 1644. Opened up China to foreign influences at the start of the dynasty, but closed down the dynasty at the end.

Prince Zheng

Civil service examination - Test given to qualify candidates for positions in the government

People can overthrow the ruler when he rules badly or a natural disaster might also be a way to overthrow.

High Taxes and forced labor

China broke into separate kingdoms. It was then reunited by the Sui Dynasty.

They were given government jobs after passing the civil service examination to prove they were qualified.

Teachings of Confucius

Only the wealthy could afford the tutors, books and study time to prepare for the exam.

be rational, moral, and able to maintain order.

attending state sponsored local schools and go to universities.

Gov't officials were respected and enjoyed privileges such as being excused from taxes and military service.

He did not believe that Confucian learning was needed for gov't jobs.

Relatives, other Mongols, and trusted foreigners

They worked only as teachers and minor gov't officials

Provided a well organized gov't. Education of scholar officials emphasized rational, moral behavior. Ensured officials were well trained.

Stood in the way of progress. Confucian scholars had little respect for merchants and business people.

(551-479 BCE) A Chinese philosopher known also as Kong Fuzi and created one of the most influential philosophies in Chinese history.

A philosophy that adheres to the teachings of the Chinese philosopher Confucius. It shows the way to ensure a stable government and an orderly society in the present world and stresses a moral code of conduct.

Chinese philosopher; taught about Daoism (following the way of nature) and yin/yang

Chinese religion that believes the world is always changing and is devoid of absolute morality or meaning. They accept the world as they find it, avoid futile struggles, and deviate as little as possible from 'the way' or 'path' of nature.

A Chinese philosophy that was devoted to strengthen and expand the state through increased agricultural work and military service.

Founder of Legalism

world's longest man made structure built to keep invaders from the north out of China, started by the Qin Dynasty, expanded by the Han Dynasty,

founder of the Qin dynasty and China's first emperor

Shi Huangdi's army for the afterlife found near his tomb. They were built to protect from the armies that he had defeated during his natural life.

A Mongol princess (ca. 1260-1306) whose exploits in battle and wrestling, along with her choice of husbands, provide insight into the relative freedom and influence of elite Mongol women in their societies.

The worlds highest mountain range containing Mt. Everest. It forms northern border (and a natural barrier) of the Indian subcontinent and China.

the longest river in China and third longest river in the world

"river of sorrows" floods; located in the north east, very long. Also called the "yellow river".

Elevated plateau in Central and East Asia. It is 3 miles above sea level and contains the Himalaya Mountains

a desert located in northern China and southeast Mongolia, and a prime area for finding dinosaur fossils

Separates Korean Peninsula and China, Yellow river runs into it

sea south of the Yangtze river, east of the Mekong river, west of the Pacific ocean

body of water separating Japan from the Koreas & China

largest continent