Traditions and Encounters, 4th Edition (Bentley)

Chapter 15: THE RESURGENCE OF EMPIRE IN EAST ASIA

Interactive Map Quiz

1

Map A. Song Dynasty


The Song Dynasty ruled China from 960 until 1279. The history of the Song can be divided into two separate periods; the Northern Song and the Southern Song. The Northern Song period stretched from 960 until 1127, when control was lost and it relinquished power to the Jin Dynasty. In 1127, the Song Dynasty moved to the south and the Southern Song reigned from 1127 to 1279. While, politically, the history of this dynasty was chaotic and resulted in the fragmentation of China into the north and the south, the Song were able to establish a large centralized system of civil servants. The arts also flourished at this time, and Confucianism was revived throughout the region. Although the bureaucracy helped to stabilize the southern dynasty, it could not help either region when the Mongol attacks began. In 1234 the Jin Dynasty and what was left of the Northern Song was defeated, and by 1279 the Southern Dynasty was also in ruins. At this time, the Mongols were able reunify China.


How did the Chinese civil service system work? Why was it so important, in terms of its effect on Chinese society and government?

2

What were the basic factors contributing to general prosperity during the Tang and Song periods? Consider especially political policies and economic reasons.

3

The book argues that Chinese efforts to dominate and influence Korea and Vietnam actually, in balance, benefited those societies. What points are given to support this argument?

4

Compare and contrast dar al-Islam (the Islamic empire) and the Chinese empires of this period (Sui, Tang, and Song). Consider the characteristics and relative importance of political structure, belief systems, social structure, and economic activities in each area.

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