Early Civilizations of China

Mark the square on the map where Chinese civilization began.

Upper Left Box is Square A

Lower Left Box is Square B

Upper Right Box is Square C

Lower Right Box is Square D

• Square A

• Square B

• Square C

• Square D

Answer explanation

Chinese civilization began in the Yellow River Valley, which corresponds to Square C on the map. This area is known for its early agricultural development and the rise of dynasties.

What did Shi Huangdi do to ensure uniformity in China?

• He created a system of laws.

• He established a state religion.

• He established a school system.

• He created a team of secret police.

Answer explanation

Shi Huangdi created a system of laws to standardize legal practices across China, ensuring uniformity and control over his vast empire. This was crucial for maintaining order and governance.

Rank the social classes in China under the Han dynasty from highest (1) to lowest (4).

• 1. The emperor, his court, and scholars
  2. Peasants
  3. Artisans
  4. Merchants

• 1. Merchants
  2. Artisans
  3. Peasants
  4. The emperor, his court, and scholars

• 1. Peasants
  2. The emperor, his court, and scholars
  3. Merchants
  4. Artisans

• 1. Artisans
  2. Merchants
  3. The emperor, his court, and scholars
  4. Peasants

Answer explanation

Under the Han dynasty, the social hierarchy placed the emperor, his court, and scholars at the top, followed by peasants who were vital for agriculture, then artisans, and lastly merchants, who were often viewed with suspicion.

True or false: The Chinese developed porcelain during the Song dynasty.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. The Chinese developed porcelain during the Song dynasty, which is known for its advancements in ceramics and the production of high-quality porcelain.

Man who, according to legend, invented paper

• Li Qingzhao

• Wu Daozi

• Du Fu

• Cai Lun

Answer explanation

Cai Lun is credited with the invention of paper during the Han Dynasty in China. His contributions to papermaking are well-documented in historical texts, making him the legendary figure associated with this important innovation.

How did the civil service system impact China during the Song Dynasty?

• It reduced tax payments.

• It created a stable government.

• It increased agricultural production.

• It established a demanding education system.

Answer explanation

The civil service system during the Song Dynasty helped create a stable government by ensuring that officials were selected based on merit rather than birth, leading to effective governance and administration.

Which group benefited from Mongol soldiers in China?

• artisans

• farmers

• merchants

• scholars

Answer explanation

Mongol soldiers facilitated trade and protected routes, which greatly benefited merchants in China. This support allowed merchants to thrive economically during the Mongol rule, making them the primary beneficiaries.

Which statements describe Zheng He's accomplishments? Choose three correct answers.

• His voyages led to Chinese colonies.

• One voyage included 200 ships.

• He sailed to the east coast of Africa.

• One voyage included 25,000 sailors.

• His voyages created new trade routes.

Answer explanation

Zheng He's voyages were significant, with one voyage featuring 200 ships and 25,000 sailors. His expeditions also established new trade routes, enhancing maritime trade, but did not lead to Chinese colonies.

What action did Ming emperors take to increase their power?

• They banned foreign trade.

• They banned religious practices.

• They ended the civil service system.

• They ended government building projects.

Answer explanation

Ming emperors banned foreign trade to strengthen their control over the economy and reduce foreign influence, thereby consolidating their power within China.

True or False: The capital of China was Chang'an during the Song Dynasty.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

False. The capital of China during the Song Dynasty was Bianliang (present-day Kaifeng), not Chang'an, which was the capital during earlier dynasties like the Tang.