Ancient Chinese Dynasties

What were two (2) purposes of the oracle bone script that was developed during the Shang Dynasty?

• Record-keeping

• Used to send letters

• To facilitate trade

• Divination (religious) practice

Answer explanation

Which of the following is an achievement of the Shang Dynasty related to craftsmanship and art?

• Wood carving and lacquerware making

• Silk production and weaving

• Papermaking and calligraphy

• Bronze castings and bronze ceremonial vessles

In what way did the Shang Dynasty influence the dynasties that followed?

• Spreading Daoism as the dominant philosophy

• By inventing papermaking

• By expanding the trade route

• Establishing the first unified imperial government

Fill in the blank: The Mandate of Heaven legitimized the authority of the emperor by suggesting that they ruled with ______ approval.

• divine
• family

• voter

• military

Using context from the Warring States Period, why would Confucianism focus on practicing ethical behavior, governance, and societal harmony.

• To encourage competition and conflict among individuals.
• To establish a theocratic government.
• To restore order and stability during a time of fighting and political instability.

• To promote individualism and personal freedom.

What was an example of notable cultural and literary achievements of the Zhou Dynasty?

• Invention of paper
• Construction of the Great Wall
• The completion of poetry texts, such as "Book of Songs" and philosophical text "I Ching"

• Discovery of gunpowder

Who was the first emperor of China and the ruler during the Qin Dynasty?

• Mao Zedong
• Qin Shi Huang
• Sun Yat-sen
• Deng Xiaoping

What are two (2) major achievements of the Qin Dynasty that have left a lasting mark on Chinese culture?

• The development of the oracle bone script

• The creation of the "Book of Songs"

• Standardization of writing and measurements

• The construction of the Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China, constructed during the Qin Dynasty, was initially built for what purpose?

• As a symbol of imperial power

• To facilitate trade along the Silk Road

• As a defensive barrier against northern invasions

• To protect against naval attacks

What revolutionary invention emerged during the Han Dynasty? Select two (2).

• steam engine
• compass

• gunpowder
• paper