Empires and Philosophies of Classical Era

The Roman Empire and Han Dynasty were two significant empires of the classical era, both lasting around 400 years with populations of about 50 million. They expanded through militarization and trade, with agriculture as their economic base. Infrastructure like roads facilitated integration. Confucianism and Roman law were key to political cohesion. Both empires eventually declined due to overexpansion and invasions, but their legacies continued through cultural and institutional influences.

Which two empires were significant during the latter part of Big Era 4?

• Mughal Empire and Byzantine Empire

• British Empire and French Empire

• Mongol Empire and Ottoman Empire

• Roman Empire and Han Dynasty

What was the primary base of wealth for both the Roman Empire and Han Dynasty?

• Mining

• Agriculture

• Trade

• Manufacturing

Which philosophy was key to political integration in Han China?

• Buddhism

• Taoism

• Legalism

• Confucianism

What was a significant method used by Rome to integrate its empire?

• Use of Mandarin

• Common legal system

• Confucian rituals

• Spread of Buddhism

What monopoly did the Han government hold to stabilize the economy?

• Rice and wheat

• Gold and silver

• Salt and iron

• Silk and tea

Why did the Roman Empire need additional territories?

• To spread Christianity

• To pay soldiers and acquire slaves

• To establish trade routes

• To find new agricultural lands

What led to the decline of both the Roman Empire and Han Dynasty?

• Overexpansion and invasions

• Economic prosperity

• Natural disasters

• Technological advancements

Which part of the Roman Empire continued for another thousand years after the fall?

• Western Roman Empire

• Southern Roman Empire

• Eastern Roman Empire

• Northern Roman Empire

What happened to the institutions of the Han Dynasty after its fall?

• They were revived by later dynasties

• They were forgotten over time

• They were adopted by the Roman Empire

• They were completely destroyed

Which new religion spread in Rome during the late classical period?

• Buddhism

• Hinduism

• Christianity

• Islam