Download Ancient China - Franceschini

Ancient China
Franceschini
Common Core SS Standards addressed throughout the reading packet:
6H.1.3 Use primary and secondary sources to interpret various historical perspectives.
6H.2.1 Explain how invasions, conquests, and migrations affected various civilizations, societies and regions (e.g., Mongol invasion, The Crusades,
the Peopling of the Americas and Alexander the Great).
6H.2.3 Explain how innovation and/or technology transformed civilizations, societies and regions over time (e.g., agricultural technology,
weaponry, transportation and communication).
6H.2.4 Explain the role that key historical figures and cultural groups had in transforming society (e.g., Mansa Musa, Confucius, Charlemagne
and Qin Shi Huangdi
6G.1.1 Explain how the physical features and human characteristics of a place influenced the development of civilizations, societies and regions
(e.g., location near rivers and natural barriers, trading practices and spread of culture).
6G.1.4 (3.01, 3.03) Explain how and why civilizations, societies and regions have used, modified and adapted to their environments (e.g.,
invention of tools, domestication of plants and animals, farming techniques and creation of dwellings).
6E.1.1 Explain how conflict, compromise, and negotiation over the availability of resources (natural, human and capital) impacted the economic
development of various civilizations, societies and regions (e.g., competition for scarce resources, unequal distribution of wealth and the
emergence of powerful trading networks).
6E.1.2 Explain how quality of life is impacted by economic choices of civilizations, societies and regions
6C&G.1.1 Explain the origins and structures of various governmental systems (e.g., democracy, absolute monarchy and constitutional
monarchy).
6C&G.1.2 Summarize the ideas that shaped political thought in various civilizations, societies and regions (e.g., divine right, equality, liberty
citizen participation and integration of religious principles).
6C&G.1.4 Compare the role (e.g., maintain order and enforce societal values and beliefs) and evolution of laws and legal systems (e.g., need for
and changing nature of codified system of laws and punishment) in various civilizations, societies and regions
6C.1.2 Explain how religion transformed various societies, civilizations and regions (e.g., beliefs, practices and spread of Buddhism, Christianity,
Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism).
Common Core Reading Standards addressed throughout the reading packet:
 Locate and cite details, State main ideas and summarize.
 Determine meanings of words and phrases.
 Determine how information is presented (sequentially, comparatively, etc.).
 Integrate and analyze visuals (maps, charts, pictures) etc. with text.
Common Core Writing Standards addressed throughout the reading packet:
 Produce clear and coherent writing appropriate for the task.
 Use technology and internet to produce writing.
 Informative and Explanatory Writing in the context of SS
Unit Vocabulary:
Students should write these words in their vocabulary journal and write their meaning with pictures (when possible)
as we come across them in our readings.
 See Bold face words highlighted throughout the readings.
1
Chinese History Part I > Geography
Objectives: SWBAT ID China’s major geographic features. SWBAT assess how the geography of China isolated it and contributed to its unique
culture. SWBAT compare China’s development to Egypt and other river valley civilizations.
6G.1.1 Explain how the physical features and human characteristics of a place influenced the development of civilizations, societies and regions
(e.g., location near rivers and natural barriers, trading practices and spread of culture).
6G.1.3 Compare distinguishing characteristics of various world regions (e.g., physical features, culture, political organization and ethnic makeup.
6G.2.1 Use maps, charts, graphs, geographic data and available technology tools to draw conclusions about the emergence, expansion and
decline of civilizations, societies and regions
For thousands of years, the ancient Chinese thought they were pretty much alone on the
planet Earth. They knew there were people to the north, the Felt Tent People - the Mongols but they did not know that other advanced ancient civilizations existed anywhere else.
China's natural barriers to the west, south, and east helped to protect these early people
from invasion. The geography isolated the Chinese from the rest of the world. China's natural
barriers to the east included the China Sea and the Yellow Sea. Both are located in the Pacific
Ocean. These seas provided a huge coastline that protected China from invaders. They also
provided trade routes and easy access to food.
China's natural barriers also included
mountains such as the Himalayas and Snowy Mountains to the southwest. These mountains
were extremely high and almost impossible to cross. To the north and the west were great
deserts such as the Gobi Desert and the Taklamakan Desert. As you can see, China had many
natural barriers, all of which helped to keep her isolated from the rest of the world for many
thousands of years.
China has one of the oldest civilizations in the world. Like most major civilizations,
Chinese civilization also began along fertile river valleys where food could be grown. Not all of
China's geography acted as barriers. Rivers provided fertile soil and safe drinking water. China
has two major river systems: the Yellow River (Huang He) and the Yangtze River (Long
River). The Yangtze (Long River) is the third longest river in the world. It is about 4000 miles
long. Just like the Nile in Egypt, the Yangtze River floods each year and leaves fertile soil along
the banks. The Yangtze River has high banks, which keeps homes safe from the annual
flooding. The Huang He (Yellow River) is about 3000 miles long. It also floods each year. The
banks along the Huang He River are low. Civilization in ancient China began along the Yellow
River about 5000 years ago. In China the Yellow River is known as "The Great Sorrow" because
each year during the flood season, all homes along the Huang He River were destroyed. Each
year, the ancient Chinese had to rebuild their homes and their lives. Over time, people learned
the techniques of flood control. Chinese people learned to work together to build strong houses
and walls. The rich began to build their homes high above the river.
Like the ancient Babylonians, Sumerians and Egyptians the Chinese would use the river to
irrigate their crops.
2
3
Essential Questions:
1. How did the geography of China isolate it and contribute to its unique culture?
2. How did the early civilization of China compare to other early river civilizations such as
Egypt and Mesopotamia?
Map Questions:
1. Where do the Yellow River and Yangtze River empty?
2. Using directions, in which area of China are the Himalayas?
3. Using directions, in which area of China is the Gobi Desert?
4. Name two geographic features in eastern China.
Complete each sentence:
1. China's natural barriers to the east included the China Sea and the _____
2. The Yellow River is also called the _____
3. The Yangtze River is also called _____
4. Civilization in ancient China began along the Yellow River about _____
5. In China the Yellow River is known as ______ because each year during the flood season,
all homes along the Huang He River were destroyed.
Chinese History Part II > Dynasties
Objectives: SWBAT ID the major dynasties of China
6H.2.4 Explain the role that key historical figures and cultural groups had in transforming society (e.g., Mansa Musa, Confucius, Charlemagne
and Qin Shi Huangdi
Ancient China covers over 11,000 years of history. Chinese civilization started around
10,000 BCE, when a group called the Yangshao (yahng show) settled near the Huang He River.
Archaeologists have uncovered many Yangshao villages in northern China. In one village, they
found the remains of farmhouses. The Huang He River was the birthplace of Chinese civilization.
China has been a land that has been ruled by dynasties for thousands of years. A
dynasty is a period of time which a certain family rules a nation. It’s a family of Kings. When
one emperor (king) died then his son would become the new emperor. Some family dynasties
ruled for hundreds of years before a new dynasty replaced them. For thousands of years China
would be ruled by many different dynasties. When one family dynasty lost control and became
weak then a new family dynasty would fight to take control. Each emperor often ruled with an
iron fist. This meant they did not give their people many rights.
China was ruled by many dynasties throughout its long history. Here is a list of dynasties
beginning with the earliest:
1. Xia Dynasty 2,000 BC -1500 BC
8. Sui Dynasty 589- 618
2. Shang Dynasty 1500 BC-1122 BC
9. T’ang Dynasty
618-907
3. Chou Dynasty 1122 BC- 256 BC
10. Period of disunity
907- 960
4. Period of disunity 256 BC- 221 BC
11. Sung Dynasty 960-1279
5. Ch’in Dynasty 221 BC- 206 BC
12. Yuan Dynasty
1279- 1368
6. Han Dynasty
206 BC – 220 AD
13. Ming Dynasty
1368- 1644
7. Period of disunity 220-589
14. Ch’ing Dynasty (Qing) 1644-1911
Questions:
1. What was the first dynasty?
4
2. What was the last dynasty?
3. How many periods of disunity were there?
4. Which river gave birth to Chinese civilization?
It can get very confusing and also frustrating sometimes to remember these dynasties
because different people refer to the same blocks of time by different names. For example,
someone might say "in Shang times" or "in Han times", or they might say "in the Bronze Age" or
"in the Age of Division". They might say in the Chou Dynasty (when the Chou family ruled) or in
the Zhou Dynasty (when the Zhou family ruled). But, the Chou and Zhou Dynasties were the
same dynasty, only spelled differently. You can see why this might be confusing!
So, before we go any further, we need a cheat sheet of who's who in ancient China.
Cheat Sheet: Who's Who in Ancient China
Time Period
Early
10,000-1500
BCE
Dynasty
Quick Glimpse
Xia(Hsia)
Lungshan people, the great engineers
Silk, potters wheel, baked brick houses, flood control,
irrigation
Rich Nobles & Poor Farmers
Oracle Bones (Shang)
Mandate of Heaven (Chou)
Ancestor Worship
Chariots, bowmen, great royal
hunts, bronze candlesticks, feudal
lords, jade carvings, Chinese writing
(pictographs), calligraphy
Bronze Age
Shang
1500-600 BCE
Chou(Zhou)
Late Chou
Classical Age
600 BCE200 CE
Ch'in(Qin)
Han
Age of
Building the Great
Wall
First Emperor (Qin)
Confucius & Taoism (Chou)
Silk Road (Han)
Central government, public schools,
mirrors, oil lamps,
fancy shoes, fireplaces, window
frames with colored glass,
marble staircases
Chinese New Year & Lantern
Festival
Chinese Zodiac
Hu the Tiger (who reminds me of Jaba the Hut in Star
5
Division
200-600 CE
A bunch of
dynasties
Wars!)
Invention of gunpowder
Tea! (Confucius probably never tasted tea, and it really
didn't become popular until T'ang times, but this era is when
it first started to be enjoyed.)
The Golden Age!
Early
Medieval
Period
600-900 CE
T'ang
Furniture, ceramics, spoons, amber, turquoise, gold, silver,
goblets, teacups, sports, games, music, dancing, even a kind
of football, and a neat form of air-conditioning. Fancy hats,
silk robes, jade belts, Buddhism
Tea was used as barter with areas in Mongolia for horses in
an exchange called the "Tea and Horse" Policy.
Questions- Use the cheat sheet.
1. During which dynasty did Confucius live?
2. During which dynasties did the Bronze Age occur?
3. During which dynasty did the building of the Great Wall begin?
4. What was the Age of division?
5. Which dynasty occurred during the early Medieval Period?
The Dynasties
Objectives: SWBAT ID the major dynasties of China, explain accomplishments and ID major people of each.
The Xia Dynasty-2,000 BC -1500 BC
Objectives: SWBAT explain why very is little is known about the Xia Dynasty.
6H.2.3 Explain how innovation and/or technology transformed civilizations, societies and regions over time (e.g., agricultural technology,
weaponry, transportation and communication).
About 3,000 BCE the Lungshan people appeared. The Lungshan were very advanced for
their time. They harvested silk, and used it to weave fine fabrics. They used the potter’s wheel.
They baked strong bricks in ovens, and used them to build their homes. They worked together
on flood control and irrigation projects. They had great engineering skills. Legend has it that
their "Great Engineer", Yu, founded the Xia Dynasty in about 2,000 BCE. There are no written
records of life during the Xia Dynasty. Our knowledge of these people comes from ruins of
their town, and ancient stories and legends.
Question:
1. Why is very little known about the Xia Dynasty?
6
Shang (1500 BC-1122 BC) and Chou (1122 BC- 256 BC)
Dynasties
Objectives: SWBAT explain the Mandate of Heaven and evaluate its impact on Chinese history. SWBAT describe accomplishments of the
Shang and Chou dynasties. SWBAT examine Chou government and economic structure.
6H.2.4 Explain the role that key historical figures and cultural groups had in transforming society (e.g., Mansa Musa, Confucius, Charlemagne
and Qin Shi Huangdi
6E.1.2 Explain how quality of life is impacted by economic choices of civilizations, societies and regions
6C&G.1.1 Explain the origins and structures of various governmental systems (e.g., democracy, absolute monarchy and constitutional
monarchy).
6C.1.3 Summarize systems of social structure within various civilizations and societies over time (e.g., Roman class structure, Indian caste
system and feudal, matrilineal and patrilineal societies).
The Shang Dynasty ruled China from around 1500 B.C. until 1100 B.C. During this 400 year
period of history, Chinese tradition states that 30 separate kings ruled from a succession of 7
different capitals. Only a few of these capitals have been located and excavated by
archeologists. One of the most important contributions made during the period that the Shang
Dynasty ruled China was the invention of writing. The earliest written records found in China
come from this time period.
One of the most important philosophies in Chinese history also developed during the
Shang Dynasty- The Mandate of Heaven. This gave the emperor the right to rule. The
Chinese believed that heaven or a godly force ruled the universe. Heaven gave the emperor the
right to rule as long as the emperor ruled wisely and protected his people. If he did not rule
wisely and protect the people, then the people did not have to listen to him. When this
happened there was usually a civil war and the person who overthrew the emperor now became
emperor and he had the new Mandate of Heaven. A new family dynasty now began.
The Chou (Zhou) family was able to defeat and overthrow the last Shang Dynasty king in
1028 B.C. They claimed that the Shang Dynasty had lost the Mandate of Heaven due to their
poor governing. The Chou Dynasty would become the longest lasting dynasty in Chinese history,
lasting over 800 years.
7
The Zhou set up a new economy, rearranging the affairs of the kingdom. As they did so,
the borders of their kingdom swelled, and they were able to maintain control over the people
they conquered effectively. Zhou kings assigned noblemen, who were usually members of the
royal family, to serve as regional rulers. These noblemen owned the land and were given absolute
authority over it. The peasants could not own land, but instead worked the land for the
noblemen. This form of government worked well for several hundred years. However, overtime
the king slowly became less powerful, while the noblemen grew in power. In 771 B.C., while
fighting against a rebellion, the Zhou armies suffered a terrible defeat. As a result, the Zhou
Dynasty lost even more power to the noblemen. They managed to hang on to power for another
500 years. Then, in 256 B.C., the Zhou Dynasty was finally overthrown.
In conclusion, Shang and Chou times are known for their use of jade, bronze, horse-drawn
chariots, ancestor worship, highly organized armies, and human sacrifice.
Cities were
surrounded by protective walls. Rich nobles owned and rule the land. Inside these walled cities
lived the rulers, priests, and warriors. Merchants and craftsmen lived in mud houses built up
against the outside walls of the cities. Farmers lived in nearby villages. Chopsticks were
invented, which changed the way people ate their food. Family for both the rich and the poor
was all important. The oldest male was the head of the family. If one member of a family did
something wrong, the entire family was in disgrace. Amongst the nobles, marriages were
arranged to strengthen or to create a union between two clans or families. The role of the
woman was to be gentle, calm, respectful, and to obey her husband. In ancient China, home and
family were so important that they were nearly sacred.
Essential Questions:
1. Explain the Mandate of Heaven.
2. How did the Mandate of Heaven give legitimacy for the Chou to overthrow the Shang?
3. How did the Chou organize their government and economy?
Complete each sentence:
1. One of the most important philosophies in Chinese history also developed during the
Shang Dynasty called _____…
2. The Chou claimed that the Shang Dynasty had lost the Mandate of Heaven due to their
_____
3. The peasants worked for the _____
4. The Zhou Dynasty was finally overthrown_____
8
The Shang Lands
The Chou Lands
The Qin (Chin) Dynasty-221 BC- 206 BC
Objectives: SWBAT summarize accomplishments and changes made by Qin (poster boards, trees, etc.) SWBAT explain how Qin was able to
have total control. SWBAT analyze why they think the qin Dynasty was short-lived.
6H.2.4 Explain the role that key historical figures and cultural groups had in transforming society (e.g., Mansa Musa, Confucius, Charlemagne
and Qin Shi Huangdi.
6E.1.1 Explain how conflict, compromise, and negotiation over the availability of resources (natural, human and capital) impacted the economic
development of various civilizations, societies and regions (e.g., competition for scarce resources, unequal distribution of wealth and the
emergence of powerful trading networks).
6C&G.1. Explain the origins and structures of various governmental systems (e.g., democracy, absolute monarchy and constitutional monarchy).
As you can see some dynasties ruled for a long time while others for only a short time.
There were also periods of disunity. These were times when the Chinese people often fought
between themselves under lesser kings who were fighting to try and get control.
By 221 B.C., a man by the name of Qin had overthrown all remaining members of the Zhou
Dynasty, and all other opposition, allowing him to place himself as the ruler of China. The Qin
Dynasty would only last about 15 years. Yet, during these short years, this dynasty would make
changes that would affect the history of China for thousands of years.
In order to show his importance and power, Qin added a new name to his own. He began
calling himself Qin Shi Huangdi, which means Qin, the first emperor of China. So influential was
Qin, that the name of the nation, China, is a derivative of his name.
Qin Shi Huangdi was an emperor who defeated many lesser leaders and united the
Chinese people as one. Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi began many of the ideas of government that
the Chinese people would follow for the next 2,000 years. The following are his
accomplishments and changes:
1. Absolute Power- The emperor was to have absolute power. This meant that the
emperor had total control over decisions for the country. Qin Shi Huangdi again
9
reorganized the affairs of China. Instead of a system of noblemen, Qin wanted
everything to be under his direct authority and control.






He established a strict set of written laws that were recognized throughout China
He set up military control in each region of China. They made sure everyone followed the laws and
also made sure local noblemen could not rebel against the emperor.
He took nobles land. Anyone who argued was put to death or put to work on the Great Wall.
Peasants were given jobs. If they did not do it or do it well, they too were put to death or sent to work
on the Great Wall.
Standardization: He introduced one system of weights, measures, money, written language, and laws.
Nobody argued with him.
Qin practiced total censorship. Qin practiced total censorship. He persecuted scholars and destroyed
books. He defined useless books as any book about anything except books about medicine, agriculture,
or prophecy. Useless books were burned. Over 400 scholars who refused to turn in books were either
buried alive or sent to work on the wall. Qin did not believe in any education for the common man.
According to Qin, the more time people spent studying, the less time they had to grow food. He
especially disliked the teachings of Confucius. He had all Confucius' books burned.
2. Bureaucracies- Qin Shi Huangdi created specialized agencies called bureaucracies. For
example he had the department of defense. He divided his empire into 36 provinces.
Each province was divided into districts. He put two government officials in charge of
each province. It was their job to put strong people in charge of each district.
3. Spy System-Qin Shi Huangdi created a Spy System to make sure everyone did their job
correctly. People had to spy on each other. It was the law. People had to spy on each at
work and at home in their neighborhood or village. If people turned in lawbreakers, they
were rewarded. If they did not, they were executed. It was a simple system, and it
worked very well in maintaining his power.
4. Qin Building Projects- The Qin emperor set out to build up China into the most glorious
nation on Earth. In order to do this he needed labor. Qin used the peasants, forcing them
to work under slave conditions, so that he could build roads, bridges, canals, buildings, and
his most famous building project of all, the Great Wall of China. It was built in northern
China to keep the Mongols and other people from the north from invading. It was begun
by Qin but the Chinese continued to work on it for over 1700 years. By the time it was
finished it was over 30 feet high, 50 feet wide and 3,500 miles long. It is one of the
great wonders of the world still today. Astronauts can actually see it from space.
Emperor Qin
The Great Wall of China
10
Qin did not think his rule was cruel. He said, "A thousand may die so that a million may
live." He built roads, canals, and bridges. His public works projects probably saved millions of
lives that would have been lost to floods and famine. Although many people died building the
Great Wall, it did provide an advantage in war.
No rebellion occurred during his rule. He died in 210 BCE. Once he was dead, his son took
over. His son did not rule for long. People revolted again the Qin government all over the
countryside. The peasant who led that revolt became the new emperor. His dynasty was called
the Han Dynasty. Life vastly improved during the Han Dynasty.
Essential Questions:
1. How was Qin able to govern all of China without rebellion?
2. Why do you think the people of China rebelled once Emperor Qin died.
Assignment: Design a poster board that highlights the accomplishments and changes of Qin Shi
Huangdi.
The Han Dynasty- 206 BC – 220 AD
Objectives: SWBAT justify the Han rise to power. SWBAT examine the reforms set forth by Emperor Wudi
6H.2.4 Explain the role that key historical figures and cultural groups had in transforming society (e.g., Mansa Musa, Confucius, Charlemagne
and Qin Shi Huangdi.
6C&G.1. Explain the origins and structures of various governmental systems (e.g., democracy, absolute monarchy and constitutional monarchy).
In the year 206 B.C., a new dynasty began to rule China. The Han Dynasty was one of the
greatest dynasties. The Han family ruled China for almost 400 years. They ruled from about
206 BC to about 220 AD. During the Han Dynasty, China conquered much of Asia and it was
during the Han Dynasty that China became rich and powerful. It began trading with people
from the west and later with Europeans.
The Han Dynasty was led by a peasant whose name was Liu Bang. Liu Bang had grown tired
of the brutal leadership of the Qin Dynasty. Many other people also were tired of the Qin. Liu
Bang proclaimed that the Qin had lost the mandate of heaven, or the right to rule the nation.
He was able to overthrow them and establish himself as the new emperor of China, and the first
emperor of the Han Dynasty.
In 139 B.C., a Han emperor by the name of Wudi sent out one of his generals to explore
other nations. He told Wudi about stories he had heard from the nomadic tribes of a great
civilization to the West that equaled the glory of China. This was the first time Wudi had heard
anything of any other civilizations. Wudi was a smart and wise ruler, who saw the potential for
trade between the two cultures.
Contact with civilizations such as India led to cultural
exchange of goods and ideas. It was at this time that Buddhism (religion) was introduced to
China from India.
During the rule of the Han emperors, China enjoyed a 400 year period of peace and
prosperity. This period of time is known as Pax Sinica, which means “Chinese Peace.” During this
time, the Han emperors established a strong central government that was designed to help the
people and protect them.
11
The Han also reformed civil service (running of the government). They abolished the
practice of giving powerful government positions to members of the royal family. They wanted
the most capable leaders to control government. To insure that the most talented leaders were
given government posts, the Han Emperor Wudi instituted a series of written exams. Anyone
could take the tests. Those who received the highest scores were given posts in the government.
By 220 A.D., the Han Dynasty had fallen into a weakened state. Warriors from competing
areas began fighting one another, throwing China into a period of civil war that would last for
many years.Even though the Han Dynasty had ended, many of the contributions made by this
dynasty would become interwoven into Chinese culture and would endure through the ages to
modern times.
Essential Questions:
1. How did Liu Bang justify overthrowing the Qin?
2. Explain the accomplishments and reforms of Emperor Wudi.
The Remaining Dynasties
Objectives: SWBAT summarize accomplishments of remaining dynasties.
6H.2.1 Explain how invasions, conquests, and migrations affected various civilizations, societies and regions (e.g., Mongol invasion, The
Crusades, the Peopling of the Americas and Alexander the Great).
Following the fall of the Han Dynasty, China went into a period of disunity for about two
hundred years where different regions were ruled by different warlords who fought one
another. The Sui Dynasty (589- 618) regained control of China but was short lived. The T’ang
Dynasty (618-907) lasted longer. During this dynasty China increased in size by adding Korea.
Education, literature and the arts flourished. Wu Chao became the only empress to rule China
during this dynasty.
Following the T’ang Dynasty, China had four other major dynasties: the Sung Dynasty (9601279) the Yuan Dynasty (1279- 1368) the Ming Dynasty (1368- 1644) and the Ch’ing Dynasty
(Qing) (1644-1911). During these dynasties China continued to grow culturally, economically and
technologically.
Gun powder, moveable type and an inoculation against smallpox were just a few advancements.
A very important aspect of the Sung Dynasty and even part of the Yuan Dynasty was the
influence of other tribes. During the early part of the Sung Dynasty, nomads from the north
invaded northern China and actually captured it. These nomads from Manchuria began the Ch’in
Empire in the North with Peking as their capital city. The Sung remained in the south. China
was divided between these two empires; The Ch’in in the north and the Sung in the south.
Later during the 13th century Genghis Khan of the Mongol tribe, from what is today
Mongolia, began conquering much of northern Ch’in China. Under his grandson, Kublai Khan, The
Mongols controlled and conquered Sung China. The Mongols also controlled other parts of Asia
to the west. The Mongolian empire was the largest ever. Kublai Khan built, cities, roads, bridges
canals and helped the poor. Despite this, the Chinese never accepted the Mongols because they
felt they were inferior. However, it wasn’t until the Ming Dynasty that the Mongols became
weak enough to conquer and expel from China.
12
Questions:
1. What was the period of disunity?
2. Who was Wu Chao
3. Explain what happened to China during the Sung Dynasty.
4. Who were Genghis Khan and Kublai Khan?
Complete each sentence:
1. The ________ _____________ was short-lived.
2. _____________ became the only empress to rule China during this dynasty.
3. A very important aspect of the Sung Dynasty and even part of the Yuan Dynasty was the
influence of other __________
4. Later during the _____ century Genghis Khan of the Mongol tribe, from what is today
_____, began conquering much of northern Ch’in China.
5. The _____ empire was the largest ever.
Genghis Khan
Kublai Khan
Chinese History Part III- The Religions and the Beliefs
Confucianism
Objectives: SWBAT ID who Confucius was and retell the main idea of Confucianism
6H.2.4 Explain the role that key historical figures and cultural groups had in transforming society (e.g., Mansa Musa, Confucius, Charlemagne
and Qin Shi Huangdi
6C.1.2 Explain how religion transformed various societies, civilizations and regions (e.g., beliefs, practices and spread of Buddhism, Christianity,
Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism).
In ancient China around 2,500 years ago there was a great teacher by the name of
Confucius. He lived during the late Chou Dynasty. He was very important because he set a
guideline of morals and values that all Chinese people were to live by. Morals and values refer
to how a person is supposed to behave in society. Sometimes we call them ethics. These ethical
beliefs became part of Chinese society and culture for thousands of years. Today the Chinese
still believe in his teachings.
13
Confucianism is not a religion. It is a philosophy. What is the difference between a
religion and a philosophy? Religions refer to a belief in a god or many gods. Philosophy just
refers to what people believe to be correct or true. For example, the belief that all people are
created equal is a philosophy not a religion. Confucius felt that China was a large family and
that the emperor was like a father. To Confucius, the family was the most important thing in
society. The family taught correct behavior and loyalty. The father was the head of the family.
He was responsible for teaching morals and values to the family and setting a good example. He
did this by learning as much as he could, being kind, being honest and being helpful toward
others. The emperor, just like the father was to do all these things for the people of his nation.
Confucius felt that all humans were good and that if everyone followed these beliefs then there
would be a perfect society. People became bad when they did not follow these guidelines and
beliefs. Confucianism believed that the whole society was more important than any one
individual person was.
Confucius
Essential Questions:
1) Who was Confucius and why was he important?
2) What is the difference between a religion and a philosophy? Why is
Confucianism considered a philosophy?
3) What did Confucius believe was the most important thing in society?
4) According to Confucius, how could there be a perfect society?
Taoism
Objectives: SWBAT contrast the beliefs o Taoism with Confucianism.
6H.2.4 Explain the role that key historical figures and cultural groups had in transforming society (e.g., Mansa Musa, Confucius, Charlemagne
and Qin Shi Huangdi
6C.1.2 Explain how religion transformed various societies, civilizations and regions (e.g., beliefs, practices and spread of Buddhism, Christianity,
Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism).
A contemporary to Confucius was a teacher named Laozi. He created another philosophy
or belief system of the Chou Period was Taoism (Daoism). Many of the beliefs of Taoism are
the opposite of Confucianism. Unlike Confucianism, Taoism taught that the individual was more
important than the family. The most important thing was not good government, but rather, the
most important thing for people was nature. People needed to respect nature and live in
harmony with it. Taoists believe that people should not try to change things through
government because no matter how hard you try a person cannot change nature. Rather than
trying to control nature people need to accept nature and live with it. In other words people
should just accept whatever happens in life. This is very different from Confucianism which
taught people to believe that a person must learn as much as possible in order to control things
in life.
Many Chinese people believed in both of these teachings and took a little bit from each
one. Many Chinese practiced both Confucianism and Daoism. Confucianism taught them how to
behave towards one another, while Daoism taught them how to behave towards the natural
world and with themselves personally.
Essential Question:
14
1. How doe Taoism differ from Confucianism?
Other Questions:
1) What is the most important thing in society to a person who follows Confucius? What is the
most important to a Daoist?
2) Why do Daoists believe trying to change things through government is not a good idea?
3) Which philosophy do you like better? Why?
Buddhism
Objectives: SWBAT explain the significance of Siddhartha Gautama. SDWBAT interpret the 4 Noble Truths and the 8 Fold Path. SWBAT
argue ad justfy opinions about Buddhist philosophy of life.
6H.2.4 Explain the role that key historical figures and cultural groups had in transforming society (e.g., Mansa Musa, Confucius, Charlemagne
and Qin Shi Huangdi
6C.1.2 Explain how religion transformed various societies, civilizations and regions (e.g., beliefs, practices and spread of Buddhism, Christianity,
Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism).
Part 1
Buddhism actually began in India but most of the people of India remained Hindus.
However, Buddhism did spread to both East Asia and Southeast Asia and became the
predominant (most popular) religion.
A prince from Nepal named Siddhartha Gautama began Buddhism. He began his religion
around 500BC. He was a very rich man. He wanted to know why there was so much suffering
and pain in the world. Why couldn’t everyone be happy? One day he had a vision. He became
very concerned about the poor. He then gave up all of his wealth and began to spread his new
beliefs. He then changed his name to Buddha, which means the enlightened one or in other
words, the one who knows everything.
Essential Question:
1. Who was Siddhartha Gautama and why was he important?
Complete each sentence:
1. Siddhartha Gautama changed his name to ____________
2. Buddhism actually began in ____________________.
3. Siddhartha Gautama wanted to know why there was so much ______________ and
_______________ in the world.
Part 2
Buddhism is a bit different than other religions. It does not have a belief in a supreme
god. Buddhism accepts the Hindu beliefs of Karma and reincarnation, but it rejects the caste
system.1 Buddha was concerned with all human suffering. He did not like the caste system
because it kept people in bad situations.
Buddha based his religion on four basic beliefs. He called these the Four Noble Truths:
1) Our lives are full of pain and suffering.
2) Our pain and suffering are caused by our desire to have things.
3) We need to get rid of our desire to have things in order to end our pain and suffering.
Reincarnation refers to your soul getting reborn into another body. Karma refers to a how a person’s behavior in this life will affect
their next life and caste system puts people into different social groups in which they cannot ever move out of during their life.
1
15
4) We must follow the eight-fold path in order to end our desire to have things. (see next
reading for eight-fold path)
Basically what Buddhism teaches is that living as human beings is very painful for our bodies,
minds and souls. People are reincarnated many times into this terrible world. People suffer
because they want to own and control too many things. In order to end this pain and suffering a
person needs to stop wanting to own and control things. For example, many people want nice
cars. But Buddha feels that wanting a car and then having a car will never make a person happy
forever.
Essential Question:
1. What do the 4 Noble Truths do?
Complete each sentence:
1. Buddhism accepts the Hindu beliefs of _______________ and reincarnation.
2. Buddhism rejects the Hind belief in the ____________ system
3. Karma refers to a how a person’s behavior in this life will affect their next __________.
4. In Hinduism, the _____________ system puts people into different social groups in
which they cannot ever move out of during their life.
5. ___________ is the Hindu belief of the soul getting reborn into another body
Buddhism Part 3
Buddhists feel a person must end their desire to own things for themselves. To do this a
person must follow The Eight-Fold Path. These are eight things all people must do in order to
end their desire to own material things. If a person follows this path then he/she can end all
desire to want things. These are the eight things:
1) talk correctly
2) act correctly
3) see things correctly
4) have good intentions
5) be good at your work
6) always try your hardest
7) concentrate hard on all things you do
8) always think about what you do
If a person follows these eight steps in life then a person will reach nirvana. Nirvana is
the perfect state of happiness where a person does not have any desires. The only thing that
matters is happiness. To be happy, a person needs nothing. Once a person reaches nirvana then
they never need to be reborn again. The cycle of reincarnation can end (this is very similar to
the Hindu belief).
Buddhism spread quickly amongst the poor people because it offered people a way to be
happy forever even though they had nothing. Today there are over 300 million people who
follow Buddhism, most of whom live in East Asia and Southeast Asia.
Essential Question:
16
1. What is the ultimate goal for a Buddhist by following the Eight Fold Path?
2. Why do you think Buddhism appeals to the poor?
Activity:
 Create posters that summarize and highlight the 4 Noble Truths and the 8 Fold
Path
Argumentative Writing Prompt:
 Do you agree or disagree with the ideas of Buddhism. Consider and analyze the
Four Noble Truths, the Eight Fold Path and the idea of Nirvanna.
 You should have the following in your essay:
a. Introduction- Summarize what Buddhism is and given your opinion.
b. Body – Support your opinion and argument with details.
c. Conclusion- Restate the main ideas using different words and expressions
Accomplishments of Ancient China
Chinese civilization had many great accomplishments. The world learned many things
from the Chinese. China invented gunpowder. The Chinese were the first to make paper. The
Chinese also developed a very advanced system of writing by making thousands of signs. They
were the first to print copies of books. Europeans didn’t do this until hundreds of years later.
The Chinese also knew how to make many things. They made weapons and tools out of
metal. Some weapons and tools created by the Chinese include the gun, crossbow, hammer,
wheelbarrow, compass, sundials and clocks. They were one of the first to make cloth from
plants and make it into clothing. They also learned to use clay to make pottery and dishes. In
China there are many earthquakes.
The Chinese developed the first seismograph.
Seismograph measures how powerful an earthquake is. By filling pottery with water and
measuring how much water came out during an earthquake they were able to tell how strong the
earthquake was.
17