Qin Dynasty

Qin Dynasty‏‎

The Qin Dynasty‏‎ (221–206 BC) was the first imperial dynasty of China, lasting only 15 years, but it laid the foundation for the structure of China's future dynasties. The dynasty was formed after the conquest of the six other major states in China by the State of Qin, and it was known for its legalist and authoritarian nature.

History

The Qin Dynasty was established by Qin Shi Huang, the First Emperor of Qin. His reign was marked by numerous military successes, the unification of China, and the beginning of the construction of the Great Wall of China. Despite its short duration, the Qin Dynasty left a lasting impact on China, setting the stage for the structure of future dynasties.

Government and Administration

The Qin Dynasty was known for its centralized, bureaucratic rule. The empire was divided into 36 commanderies, each governed by a civil and military official. The Legalist philosophy was the guiding principle of the Qin administration, emphasizing strict adherence to laws and harsh punishments for those who disobeyed.

Culture and Society

The Qin Dynasty standardized Chinese characters, weights, measures, and currency, which facilitated communication and commerce throughout the empire. The dynasty also promoted Confucianism, which became the dominant ideology in Chinese society.

Legacy

Despite its short duration, the Qin Dynasty had a profound impact on China. It established the precedent of a centralized, bureaucratic government, which was continued by subsequent dynasties. The dynasty's legalist policies, while harsh, helped to maintain order and stability in the empire.

See also

• History of China
• Qin Shi Huang
• Great Wall of China
• Legalism (Chinese philosophy)