Confucianism and Economic Development in China

Confucianism is a philosophy that emphasizes ethical principles and social harmony, focusing on the importance of relationships, duties, and proper behavior within a hierarchical society.

Ren represents the idea of human-heartedness, compassion, and goodness. It encompasses the virtue of loving and caring for all humanity.

Xiao emphasizes the importance of respecting and honoring one's parents and elders, upholding familial obligations and filial piety. It reflects a fundamental Confucian value.

The Confucian exam was a rigorous test based on memorizing and understanding Confucian teachings, emphasizing respect for tradition and discouraging independent thinking and innovation.

The Mandate of Heaven is a concept that justifies the emperor's rule based on their ability to maintain economic and social harmony. If the emperor fails, they lose the Mandate and can be overthrown.

A silver ingot currency used in China during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It was crucial for trade and taxation, replacing agricultural products as a primary form of payment.

A trade route that connected Manila (Philippines) to Acapulco (Mexico) via the Galleon ships. This route facilitated the flow of silver from the Americas to China, fueling the silver-based economy.

The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) was a period of great prosperity and stability in China. It was ruled by the Han people and emphasized tolerance and self-sufficiency among its peasant population. This era saw a flourishing trade with the outside world, fueled by a growing silver economy.

The Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) was ruled by the Manchu people. It saw a vast expansion of the empire and continued economic prosperity. The Qing Dynasty also ushered in a period of increased interaction with Western powers, who were drawn to China's valuable goods like tea, porcelain, and silk.

A system implemented by the Qing Dynasty in the 18th century to control trade with European powers. It confined Westerners to a designated trading area in Guangzhou (Canton) with strict limitations on their stay and interactions.

A British diplomatic mission led by Lord Macartney in 1793. Their mission was to improve trade relations with China, but their attempts to establish diplomatic equality with the Qing Emperor were met with resistance due to China's view of itself as the 'Middle Kingdom'.

A highly addictive drug that the British East India Company began exporting to China in the 18th century. It was used to reduce Britain's trade deficit and ultimately led to the Opium Wars.

A Chinese official who led efforts to combat the opium trade in the early 19th century. He implemented a ban on opium and seized large quantities of the drug, which ultimately led to conflict with the British.

A series of conflicts between China and Western powers (including Britain) in the 19th century, fueled by opium trade and unequal treaties that favored Western interests. These wars resulted in significant territorial concessions and weakening of China's sovereignty.

A treaty signed in 1842, ending the First Opium War. It forced China to open five new treaty ports, cede Hong Kong to Britain, pay a large indemnity, and grant extraterritoriality to British citizens.

A social and political doctrine that emphasizes harmony, social order, and respect for hierarchy. It played a crucial role in shaping Chinese society and governance for centuries.

A belief that the emperor's right to rule was granted by Heaven, but it could be revoked if the emperor failed to maintain social harmony and good governance.

A complex system of civil service examinations used to select officials for government positions in imperial China. It emphasized memorization of Confucian texts and discouraged innovation.

A period of Mongol rule over China, marked by the establishment of the Yuan Dynasty, which brought about significant changes to Chinese society and governance.

The first Ming emperor, known for his efforts to establish a strong and centralized state, promote Confucian ideology, and create a society based on self-sufficient peasants.

The emperor of the Qing Dynasty known for his support of Confucianism, his centralized administration, and his strong military leadership.

The most famous maritime expeditions in Chinese history, led by Admiral Zheng He, which explored the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia during the early Ming Dynasty.

A series of voyages undertaken by Admiral Zheng He under the Ming Dynasty, showcasing China's advanced shipbuilding and navigational technology.

A large-scale trade route that connected East Asia to Europe and the Middle East, transporting goods such as silk, porcelain, and spices. It was a vital route for both commerce and cultural exchange.

A period of trade relations between China and other countries that flourished during the Ming Dynasty, facilitated by the use of silver as currency and the demand for Chinese goods.

A major factor contributing to the Ming Dynasty's economic growth and expansion, silver was a significant exchange medium during this period.

A series of social, economic, and political challenges that led to the decline of the Ming Dynasty, including banditry, peasant uprisings, and internal corruption.