Economic Changes in China Post-1978
41 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What economic changes did the Chinese Communist Party introduce in the late 1970s?

  • Heavy military expansion
  • Liberal economic policies (correct)
  • Isolationist trade policies
  • Increased political freedoms
  • Which region is considered the poorest in Asia?

  • West Asia
  • North Asia
  • East Asia
  • South Asia (correct)
  • What is a notable characteristic of North Asia?

  • It has the largest population density.
  • It consists solely of the Russian Federation. (correct)
  • It has a significant amount of gold and minerals.
  • It mainly exports agricultural products.
  • Which country has the largest population in the world?

    <p>China (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What has been a significant concern for the Chinese government due to its large population?

    <p>Overpopulation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which region is known for its dependency on agriculture?

    <p>South East Asia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What historical challenges did China face despite having a long continuous civilization?

    <p>Civil strife and external invasion (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which country is NOT part of East Asia according to the content?

    <p>India (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect did foreign imperialism have on China in the nineteenth century?

    <p>It forced China open but also resulted in wars and revolutions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant factor in China's transformation from a centralized power to a weaker state by the nineteenth century?

    <p>An inability to maintain political autonomy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which dynasty is noted for its contributions to cultural development and trade during China's early political centralization?

    <p>Han dynasty (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one major outcome of the institutionalization of the bureaucracy during the Sui and Tang dynasties?

    <p>Creation of a gentry class (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which dynasty did China still lead the world in technological innovation and public works?

    <p>Ming dynasty (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the reliance on bureaucracy help China during the establishment of new dynasties?

    <p>It maintained unity and governance (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant shift occurred following the collapse of the Han dynasty?

    <p>Division of China for nearly four centuries (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the main reasons why China did not experience industrialization despite its advancements?

    <p>Absence of a need for modernization (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which innovation was NOT significantly advanced in China compared to Europe before the nineteenth century?

    <p>Automobile technology (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a major cultural reason for the stagnation of Chinese innovation during the mid-1400s?

    <p>Outdated bureaucratic examinations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Confucian thought impact China's reaction to external knowledge?

    <p>It placed importance on imperial stability over innovation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What economic change contributed to the diminishing role of entrepreneurialism in China?

    <p>The rise of bureaucratic elites (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which geographic factor contributed to China's economic isolation during this period?

    <p>The absence of rival powers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What key event marked the beginning of China's self-isolation by the mid-1400s?

    <p>The prohibition of long-distance sea travel (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one effect of the concentration of economic power in the hands of the state in China?

    <p>Stifling of business activity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the political structure of Europe differ from that of China during this period?

    <p>European states were in constant competition for power (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primary reason led to the rejection of technological advancements in China?

    <p>Cultural acceptance of isolationism (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the result of the First Opium War between China and Great Britain?

    <p>China was forced to cede Hong Kong and pay restitution. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which political party aimed to modernize China and was influenced by the May Fourth movement?

    <p>The Nationalist Party (Kuomintang) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor contributed to the erosion of centralized authority in China by the early twentieth century?

    <p>The influence of foreign powers and subsequent wars. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    After the death of Sun Yat-sen, what occurred between the KMT and the CCP?

    <p>Relations unraveled, leading to mutual hostility. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who took control of the KMT after Sun Yat-sen's death?

    <p>Chiang Kai-shek (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did the Soviets support the KMT over the CCP initially?

    <p>They thought the KMT would be more effective in gaining power. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact did the May Fourth movement have on the nationalist sentiments in China?

    <p>It caused a backlash against foreign influence and traditionalism. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did regional warlords play in the political chaos of early twentieth-century China?

    <p>They maintained control in the absence of a strong central authority. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant factor contributing to the reduction of inflation in China during the period from 1995 to 1997?

    <p>Tighter monetary policies (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What environmental issue poses a long-term threat to China's economic growth?

    <p>Deterioration of the environment (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the official unemployment rate in urban areas of China in 1998?

    <p>3% (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following commodities was among China's main exports in 1998?

    <p>Electrical machinery and equipment (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major event occurred in Japan in 1947?

    <p>Introduction of a new constitution (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When did Japan regain its independence after World War II?

    <p>1952 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which political party was formed in Japan in 1955 and governed almost uninterruptedly?

    <p>Liberal Democratic Party (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant reconstruction effort was initiated in Japan after World War II?

    <p>Creation of a free-market economic system (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    China's Ancient History

    China's history spans back at least 4,000 years, making it one of the oldest civilizations in the world.

    China's Population

    China is home to over 1.3 billion people, making it the most populous country on Earth.

    China's Rapid Development

    China has experienced rapid economic and social development in recent decades, transforming from a largely agrarian country to a global economic powerhouse.

    China's Isolation and Stagnation

    For centuries, China's isolation and stagnation led to foreign intervention and ultimately to war and revolution.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    China's Overpopulation Concerns

    The Chinese government has been concerned about overpopulation, its impact on resources, and its implications for economic growth.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    China's Market Potential

    The vast market of China has attracted foreign businesses for centuries in hopes of tapping into its enormous potential.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    China's Cultural Heritage

    China's ancient history and cultural heritage have had a profound impact on its modern society and politics. Traditions and values often carry over to the present day.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    China's Rise and Fall

    China, once a dominant power, experienced a period of decline and foreign influence, leading to its transformation and rise to prominence in the 21st century.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What were the 'Reform and Opening' policies?

    The Chinese Communist Party implemented economic reforms known as 'reform and opening' in the late 1970s, transforming China into a major economic force. These reforms aimed to liberalize the economy while maintaining tight control over politics.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    How quickly did China's economy grow in the decades following the reform and opening?

    China's GDP grew at an average rate of nearly 10% per year for three decades after the 'Reform and Opening' policies began in 1978. This rapid economic growth is unmatched in the world.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Where does most of China's population live?

    Despite being one of the largest countries in terms of landmass, most of China's population lives in the south and along the coast. This is due to the more temperate climate and abundant rainfall, providing fertile land.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are the two vital rivers in China?

    The Yellow (Huang He) and Yangtze (Chang Jiang) Rivers serve as important lifelines for China. They flow eastward towards the Pacific Ocean, nourishing agriculture and supporting transportation.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are the prominent geographical features of southwestern and northwestern China?

    The southwestern portion of China, including Tibet, is known for its Himalayan and Altai mountain ranges. In contrast, most of Xinjiang in the northwest is characterized by desert landscapes.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Han Dynasty's Achievements

    The Han Dynasty (206 B.C.E. – 220 C.E.) was a period of significant growth and development for China, marked by advancements in culture, trade, and exploration.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Sui and Tang Dynasties' Reunification

    The Sui and Tang Dynasties (591–907 C.E.) restored the unity of the Chinese Empire after the collapse of the Han Dynasty. This period witnessed a resurgence of economic and cultural prosperity.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the climate like in northeastern China?

    China's northeastern region, bordering Mongolia and Siberia, experiences bitterly cold winters. This extreme climate contrasts with the more temperate conditions in the south.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the dominant ethnic group in China?

    The Han ethnic group forms the vast majority of China's population, exceeding 90%. This homogeneity is attributed to historical processes of unification and cultural assimilation.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    The Importance of Bureaucracy

    The development of a strong bureaucratic class during the Han Dynasty and its subsequent dynasties played a crucial role in maintaining China's unity and stability. This bureaucracy, made up of educated officials, served as the glue that held the vast empire together.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    When did China first unify, and what was the significance of this event?

    China's early unification in 221 B.C.E. led to the consolidation of diverse cultures and languages into a single Han identity. This process marked the emergence of a unified Chinese state.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Ming Dynasty: Leader in Innovation

    The Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) saw China at the forefront of scientific, economic, and technological innovation. Though China had the foundation for modernization and industrialization, these processes did not take place.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    China's Political Paradox

    The paradox of China's political development is how a country with such an ancient civilization and early political centralization could become weak in the 19th century, unable to resist Western imperialism. China's early development and its later weakness are interconnected.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Early Centralization in China

    China's early empires, such as the Han Dynasty, saw the establishment of a centralized government. Key features of this centralization included the appointment of officials to govern provinces, the use of standardized currency, and the development of infrastructure like roads and canals. This laid the foundation for a strong and unified China.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Lack of Industrialization in China

    Despite its technological advances, China did not embrace industrialization during the Ming Dynasty, leading to its weakening in the face of Western imperialism. This lack of modernization left China unprepared for the changing global landscape.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Dynasty Continuity in China

    The Yuan Dynasty was founded by the Mongols, and the Qing Dynasty was founded by the Manchus. Both dynasties adopted the existing bureaucratic system of the previous Han Dynasty, ensuring continuity and stability in the empire.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Confucian thought

    A belief system that emphasizes social harmony, respect for authority, and ethical conduct, often associated with bureaucracy and stability.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Rise of the Bureaucratic Elite

    The role of government officials in China changed from entrepreneurial activities to more lucrative and influential positions, often involving rent-seeking and corruption.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Bureaucratic Examinations

    A system of examinations based on Confucian texts that determined government positions, which limited innovation and discouraged new ideas.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Confucian Disdain for Commerce

    Confucian disdain for commerce and high taxes hindered business growth and entrepreneurship in China.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    China's Geographic Isolation

    China's geographical isolation and internal stability reduced external pressures for change, allowing for complacency and lack of innovation.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Europe's Competitive Environment

    Europe's numerous states competing for power encouraged innovation and technology for survival, while China's relative peace allowed for stagnation.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Ban on Long-Distance Sea Travel

    China's decision to limit long-distance sea travel in the mid-1400s marked a turning point in its engagement with the world, leading to isolation.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Divergent Paths

    The period when Europe was exploring and conquering the world, while China retreated into isolation, marked a significant divergence in their paths.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    The First Opium War

    A war between Great Britain and China (1839-1842) that resulted in a Chinese defeat, forcing China to cede Hong Kong to the British and pay reparations. It marked the beginning of unequal treaties and foreign influence in China.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Japan's post-war constitution

    Japan's constitution, put in place in 1947, establishes a parliamentary system and renounces war, making the country unable to maintain its own military forces.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    LDP's rule in Japan

    The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) was formed in 1955 and continued to govern Japan uninterruptedly for most of the century, proving their dominance over the political landscape.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Warlord Era

    A period of instability in China where regional warlords controlled different parts of the country following the fall of the Qing dynasty in 1911.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Normalization of Japan-China relations

    In 1972, Japan and China resumed normal diplomatic relations after a break, marking a significant step in their relationship.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    May Fourth Movement

    A nationalist movement that emerged in China in 1919, fueled by student protests against foreign interference and calls for modernization and reform.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Challenges to China's Population Control

    China's population control program, used to control population growth, has become weaker due to resistance, policy shifts, and weakened authority by rural cadres. Maintaining rapid economic growth has become difficult.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Kuomintang (KMT)

    The Nationalist Party in China formed under Sun Yat-sen, aimed at achieving national unity and modernization.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Environmental threats to China's growth

    China faces environmental issues, including air pollution, soil erosion, and declining water tables, which threaten their economic future.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Chinese Communist Party (CCP)

    The Chinese Communist Party founded in 1921, initially supported by the Soviet Union, seeking to establish a socialist China.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Land Loss in China

    China continues to lose arable land because of erosion and economic development. This poses a serious threat to their food security and future growth.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    KMT-CCP Conflict

    The clash between the Kuomintang and the Chinese Communist Party following the death of Sun Yat-sen in 1925, leading to a period of civil war and instability.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    China's Unemployment Situation

    China's unemployment is officially reported as 3% in urban areas, but estimated to be significantly higher with unemployment and underemployment in rural areas.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Chinese Civil War

    The period of civil war in China (1927-1949) between the KMT and the CCP, culminating in the CCP's victory and the establishment of the People's Republic of China.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Chiang Kai-shek

    The leader of the KMT, known for his ruthless suppression of the CCP and warlords after Sun Yat-sen's death, eventually exiled to Taiwan in 1949.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Major Exports of China

    China's exports primarily include electrical machinery, machinery and mechanical appliances, apparel, footwear, toys, and sporting goods.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Study Notes

    Asian Political Systems

    • Asia holds a leading position in strategic thought due to its historical, cultural, and geopolitical significance.
    • Its position as a gateway and bridge to global domination is reinforced by its enormous energy and demographic value.

    Importance of Asia

    • Asia has been a key arena for international struggles throughout history, particularly during the Cold War.
    • This struggle was driven by geopolitical rivalries and the strategic importance of Asia in global leadership.
    • Asia's economic, geographical, and cultural capabilities heighten its importance in the international system.
    • Active Asian powers like China are key to obtaining global status.

    Demographics of East Asia

    • East Asian countries have seen significant human development improvements over the past four decades.
    • China has demonstrated remarkable progress in income.
    • Nepal has shown rapid growth in health and education.
    • Japan and South Korea top the Human Development Index.

    Geography of Asia

    • Asia covers approximately 8.8% of the total land area, the largest in terms of coastline.
    • Spanning from the Suez Canal to the Ural Mountains and encompassing various seas and oceans.
    • Featuring diverse landscapes ranging from mountain ranges to deserts.
    • A diverse range of climates are found across the continent of Asia.

    Economy of Asia

    • Asia has the second largest nominal GDP globally.
    • The largest economies in Asia include India, China, Japan, Indonesia, and South Korea.
    • Asia dominates global office locations.
    • Countries like India are predicted to surpass Japan in terms of nominal GDP by 2020 and to become the world's largest economy by 2027.

    Major Asian Financial Centers

    • Hong Kong, Tokyo, Shanghai, and Singapore are major financial centers, attracting a large pool of English-speaking workers and promoting business activities.
    • India and China are key financial centers due to outsourcing, including IT outsourcing.

    Asian Religions

    • Asia has been the origin of several major religions, with varied and complex myths.
    • Religions like Judaism, Islam, and Christianity originated in Western Asia.
    • Hindu, Buddhist, Jainism, and Sikhism originated in the Indian subcontinent.
    • Confucianism, Zen Buddhism, and Taoism originated in East Asia.

    Asian Regions and Countries

    • North Asia: The Russian Federation, known for oil and gas exports.
    • East Asia: China, Mongolia, Taiwan, Japan, North Korea, South Korea – largely industrial.
    • South Asia: India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan – predominantly low-income and agriculture-dependant.
    • Southeast Asia: Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia – primarily agriculture.
    • West Asia (Middle East): Countries like KSA, Kuwait, etc., substantial oil and gas resources.
    • Central Asia: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan; resources of minerals, notably gold.

    China Case Study

    • China's history spans over four millennia, forming a unified nation and people despite internal conflicts and external invasions.
    • China's vast population (over 1.3 billion) is a major component of its global significance and a concern for resource distribution alongside global issues of poverty and inequality.
    • Historically, China's strength was also in its dominating influence across its neighbouring states, with its influence also reaching across landmasses worldwide.
    • China's significant development was driven by reform and opening in the late 1970s and led to outstanding growth rates well above the rest of the world's.
    • China's impressive economic growth rates have often been coupled with environmental challenges which pose threats to continued rapid growth.
    • The variety of different geographical landscapes in China, from desert regions to mountain ranges to fertile farming lands, presents unique challenges and opportunities for the growth and prosperity of its population.

    China's Historical Development

    • Centralization: China experienced political centralization at an early stage of its history.
    • Dynastic Rule: Dynastic rule played a major role in China's unity, despite invasions and internal strife.
    • Bureaucracy: The bureaucracy facilitated economic activities and foreign relations.
    • Affluence without Industrialization: Despite not having been fully industrialized in the 1400s compared to Europe's Industrial Revolution, knowledge, economic, and organizational innovations occurred in China before Europe.
    • Confucian Thought: Confucian thought fostered political stability but also limited societal progress.
    • Economic Issues: The role of entrepreneurialism waned while corruption and public employment issues took root leading to economic problems in later dynasties.
    • Geographic Issues: China's geography both bolstered its unity and limited its exposure to external forces.

    China's Modernization and Political Evolution

    • The CCP (Chinese Communist Party) took control in 1949 and established the People's Republic of China (PRC).
    • Early Policies: Initially, China closely aligned with the Soviet Union for modernization.
    • Cultural Revolution: This period saw significant political and social upheaval under Mao Zedong.
    • Reform and Opening: Significant shifts to more market-oriented economic policies post-Mao.

    Japan History

    • 1945 Atomic Bombings: The bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki led to Japan's surrender in WW2.
    • Post-War Constitution: Japan adopted a new constitution, renouncing war and establishing a parliamentary system.
    • 1950s-1960s: Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) rose to power and saw economic expansion until the late 1990s.
    • 1990s Economic Challenges: Economic stagnation, bribery scandals and national catastrophes led to a decline in the LDP's political and economic influence which was lost to opposing parties in the early 2000s.

    Japan's Modern Political and Economic Environment

    • Emperor Akihito: Japan's current emperor.
    • Bicameral Legislature: Japan's legislature consists of the House of Councilors and the House of Representatives with leaders based on party affiliation.
    • Political Parties and Leaders: Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) continues to hold influence as a political party with its leaders prominent in parliamentary politics.
    • Economic Challenges: Recent economic challenges stemming from natural disasters pose a significant setback to modern Japan's progress.

    Russia Political System Overview

    • Russia's governing body is a democratic federal state with a republican form of government.
    • The legislative body is the bicameral Federal Assembly.
    • The executive power is exercised by the Government of the Russian Federation.
    • The head of state is the President.

    Russia's Political Structure

    • Federal Assembly is the legislature comprising of the lower house (State Duma) and the upper house (Federation Council).
    • The head-of-state is the President.
    • The executive branch consists of the Government.
    • Powers conferred to the President include but are not limited to appointment and dismissal of certain governmental officials, initiating and implementing policies, and approving legislation.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Related Documents

    Description

    This quiz explores the significant economic changes introduced by the Chinese Communist Party in the late 1970s. It will also compare China's GNP growth rate after 1978 with those of the United States and the United Kingdom, highlighting the impact of these reforms.

    More Like This

    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Browser