MEDUC513/EDUC324 Ancient China Quiz

Which was the first confirmed dynasty in China?

• Xia

• Shang

• Qin

• Han

Answer explanation

The Shang dynasty was the first confirmed dynasty due to archeological evidence. The earliest written documents were dated to this period on tortoise shells and cattle shoulder blades. They reigned from 1600 B.C. – 1046 B.C.

What were some of the Han dynasty's accomplishments?

Check all that apply.

• Establishment of the Silk Road

• Landlordism

• Advancements in culture

• Imperial expansion

Answer explanation

The Han Dynasty is considered one of the greatest periods in Chinese history; their first golden age. Its accomplishments included peace and prosperity (during the reign of Gaozu), establishment of the silk road, advancements in culture (literature and art), and imperial expansion.

Which two dynasties had the most characteristics in common?

• Qin & Sui

• Shang & Han

• Tang & Yuan

• Xia & Liao

Answer explanation

The Sui dynasty had many parallels to the previous Qin dynasty. Both were short-lived, used harsh measures to achieve unity, and was overthrown for their harsh and totalitarian natures.

Which was not one of the beliefs systems that emerged during the Spring and Autumn period and the Warring States period?

• Confucianism

• Legalism

• Daoism

• Buddhism

Answer explanation

During the Spring and Autumn and the Warring States periods, the three beliefs systems that grew to the most prominence are Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism. Buddhism did not take hold in China until later in the Han dynasty.

TRUE OR FALSE. It was during the Zhou dynasty that the concept of "The Mandate of Heaven" was introduced.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

The "Mandate of Heaven" was introduced during the Zhou dynasty in order to justify their uprising and eventual rule against the previous Shang dynasty.

Why did the Yuan dynasty fall after less than a century of ruling?

Check all that apply.

• Inconsistencies in governing

• Language barrier

• Unable to maintain order

• Too focused on their efforts to conquer Japan

Answer explanation

The Yuan dynasty fell due to two primary reasons: inconsistencies in governing the realm and being unable to maintain order. The Yuan court could not agree on whether to govern with the "native" Chinese-style or the "traditional" Mongolian style. Furthermore, they failed to maintain order as various problems arose such as inflation and botched famine reliefs.

Describe the governing style of the Song Dynasty

Answer explanation

The Song Dynasty can be described as externally weak yet internally strong. While their military had been reduced due to fear of military mutiny, the Song emperors still held great power within the realm.

How did the Jin dynasty emerged?

• They were a small territory that defeated the Wei Kingdom by sheer luck.

• They descended from the heavens with the order to unite China and end fighting.

• The founder of the dynasty was a former Wei official who usurped power.

• Agents of the Shu Kingdom infiltrated the Wei Kingdom and usurped power.

Answer explanation

The Jin dynasty was formed under Sima Yan, who was a former general within the Wei Kingdom. He turned against the Wei King, forcing him to cede the throne.

TRUE OR FALSE. Foreign relations between the Khitan Liao and the Song were unique as it was the first time a Chinese emperor recognized a foreign ruler as their equal.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Although it was done reluctantly, the Song Dynasty did explicitly and publicly recognize the Khitan Liao as their equal. The two would eventually agree to a treaty that would cease fighting.

The Tang dynasty is considered to be China's second golden age. What occurred during this period?

Check all that apply.

• Poetry and art flourished

• The capital was full of splendor

• One of the rulers was a woman

• Reached great military prowess

Answer explanation

By the early 8th century, Tang China was considered the world's "wealthiest and most powerful state." Poetry and art flourished, great military prowess, the capital of Chang'an was described to have surpassed Constantinople, and the dynasty had a series of competant emperors. One of which was a woman name Wu Zetian!