Ancient Chinese Dynasties Flashcards

Mongols and Dynasties

• The Mongols ruled China from the plains north of the country, establishing the Yuan dynasty.
• Zheng He, known as the Admiral of the Western Seas, was an influential explorer during the Ming dynasty.

Key Resources

• Silk was highly sought after as a valuable material produced in China.
• North Korea has significant deposits of coal, a crucial natural resource.

Japanese Religion and Geography

• Shinto is the indigenous religion of Japan, emphasizing the worship of kami (spirits).
• Mount Fuji is a sacred physical feature in Japan, revered for its beauty and spiritual significance.

Natural Disasters

• Tsunamis are massive destructive waves caused by underwater earthquakes, posing threats to coastal regions.

Governance and Social Structure

• Bureaucracy refers to the unelected government officials in China responsible for administration.
• In Han China, emperors held the highest position in the social hierarchy.

History of Japan and Korea

• Both Japan and the Koreas were historically ruled by China, reflecting China's significant influence in the region.

Major Construction and Architecture

• The Sui dynasty initiated the construction of the Grand Canal, an important waterway for transportation and trade.
• The Forbidden City is a vast governmental complex in China, historically restricting access to common citizens.

Philosophies and Writing Systems

• The Zhou dynasty operated under the belief that heaven granted the right to rule, known as the Mandate of Heaven.
• Kanji characters represent whole words in Japanese, showcasing the integration of Chinese writing influences.

Cultural Capitals

• Kyoto served as Japan's imperial city, rich in cultural heritage and historical significance.

Early Developments

• The Shang dynasty is credited with creating the first writing system in China, marking an important development in communication and record-keeping.