Questions and Answers
Describe the political structure of the Song Dynasty.
Had a centralized government based on Confucian ideas, civil service exam used to fill bureaucracy, emperor ruled with government officials.
What is Scholar Gentry?
Mostly wealthy people that could afford school got most government jobs.
What are some traditional elements of Chinese culture?
Foot binding, patriarchy, Confucianism, ethnocentrism, Daoism/Taoism, Buddhism.
What are the core concepts of Confucianism?
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What is the focus of Daoism?
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What are the main teachings of Buddhism?
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What were some achievements of the Song Dynasty?
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What elements of Chinese culture flourished during the Song period?
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What is Neo-Confucianism?
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Describe Silk Road Trade.
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What is cultural syncretism?
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How did Song China influence and interact with its Asian neighbors?
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What influence did Song China have on Korea?
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What influence did Song China have on Vietnam?
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What influence did Song China have on Japan?
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What new innovations developed during the Song period?
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How did increased productive capacity impact Song China?
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What explains the expansion of Islam?
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What are Caliphates?
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What was the Abbasid Caliphate known for?
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Study Notes
Political Structure of the Song Dynasty
- Centralized government influenced by Confucian principles.
- Civil service exams established to appoint bureaucratic officials.
- Bureaucracy commanded high respect; women were excluded from governance.
- Emperor collaborated with officials to maintain stability and provide services.
Scholar Gentry
- Comprised mostly of wealthy individuals who could afford education.
- Held a majority of government positions.
Traditional Elements of Chinese Culture
- Practices included foot binding and a strong patriarchal system.
- Philosophical influences from Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism.
- Ethnocentrism evident in the belief of China as the "Middle Kingdom."
- The dynastic cycle and the Mandate of Heaven were significant in explaining dynastic legitimacy.
Confucianism
- Centers on five key relationships embodying hierarchies of superior and inferior.
- Functions as a moral framework and lifestyle guide for the Chinese populace.
Daoism
- Emphasizes harmony with nature and the practice of inactivity.
Buddhism
- Promotes non-violence and the pursuit of Nirvana (enlightenment).
- Highlights concepts of reincarnation and the cessation of desire to alleviate suffering.
- Originates in India and spreads to China after the decline of the Han dynasty.
Achievements of the Song Dynasty
- Continued overseas trade initiated during the Tang dynasty.
- Cultural expressions found in landscape paintings and artistic ventures.
- Military innovations included advanced catapults and fire weaponry.
- Inventions such as movable type printing and the compass emerged.
Flourishing Elements of Chinese Culture during the Song
- Infrastructure developments like canals and bridges by skilled engineers.
- Emergence of Neo-Confucianism, reinforcing ethnocentric ideas and social hierarchies.
- Expansion of trade along the Silk Road.
Neo Confucianism
- A fusion of Confucian doctrines with Buddhism and Daoism.
- Emphasized and reaffirmed gender and class distinctions within society.
Silk Road Trade
- Created a trade network linking China with various urban centers.
- Enabled the exchange of diverse goods, technologies, and religious beliefs.
Cultural Syncretism
- Represents the blending of cultures and ideas from different regions.
Influence of Song China on Asian Neighbors
- Promoted the spread of Confucianism, patriarchy, Buddhism, and writing systems.
- Established a tribute system to dominate weaker nations and maintain peace with nomadic groups.
- Facilitated cultural diffusion through trade interactions.
Song Influence on Korea
- Adoption of the Chinese term for "King" and administrative techniques.
- Influx of luxury goods from China led to diminished independence for Korean women.
Song Influence on Vietnam
- Introduced Chinese-style agriculture and education based on Confucian principles.
- Mandated the use of Chinese language in business and adoption of Chinese fashion trends.
Song Influence on Japan
- Japanese rulers emulated the Chinese emperor model; Confucianism and Buddhism were introduced.
- Adaptation of the Chinese court system, taxation, and administrative practices.
- Capital cities were modeled after Chinese designs, integrating elements of Chinese culture.
Innovations during the Song Period
- Development of porcelain, compasses, silk, paper money, and gunpowder.
- Introduced iron and steel production, mechanical clocks, and advancements in shipbuilding.
- Agricultural improvements included terracing, irrigation techniques, and new rice varieties.
Impact of Increased Productive Capacity on Song China
- Population growth resulted from enhanced production capabilities.
- Larger population allowed for increased trade and economic opportunities.
Religious Practices Impacting Dar-al-Islam
- Emergence of two main Islamic branches: Sunni and Shia.
- Initially, the Abbasid caliphate was supported by Shia factions.
Expansion of Islam and Role of Sufis
- Spread through trade and missionary activities, coupled with shifts in political authority.
- Sufis blended Islam with existing beliefs to facilitate conversions and imposed taxes on non-Muslims.
Caliphates
- Emergence of empires corresponding with the spread of Islamic teachings.
The Abbasid Caliphate
- Recognized as the golden age of Islam, characterized by significant advancements across intellectual, technological, and cultural fields.
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Explore the political structures and key social classes of the Song Dynasty in this AP World flashcard quiz. Understand the roles of Confucianism, bureaucracy, and the Scholar Gentry in shaping government and society during this period.