Qin dynasty

Qin Dynasty 秦朝
221 BC–206 BC
Capital	Xianyang
Common languages	Old Chinese
Government	Absolute monarchy
Emperor
• 221–210 BC	Qin Shi Huang
• 210–207 BC	Qin Er Shi
• 207 BC	Ziying
History
• Established	221 BC
• Disestablished	206 BC
Preceded by Succeeded by Zhou dynasty Han dynasty

The Qin dynasty (秦朝 ) was the first imperial dynasty of China, lasting from 221 to 206 BC. It followed the Warring States period, which concluded after the state of Qin conquered the other six states and unified China. The dynasty was founded by Qin Shi Huang, the First Emperor, who is renowned for his substantial reforms in politics, economy, and culture, including the standardization of the Chinese script, weights, measures, and even the axle lengths of carts to facilitate transport and communication.

History

The Qin dynasty emerged from the persistent state of warfare among the Zhou states, culminating in the ascension of the state of Qin. Under the leadership of Qin Shi Huang, the Qin state defeated the rival states, unifying China in 221 BC. The administrative reforms and military conquests of Qin Shi Huang left a lasting imprint on Chinese history, setting the foundation for the future empires.

Reforms

Qin Shi Huang implemented sweeping reforms aimed at centralizing the state. He abolished the feudal system and replaced it with a centralized, bureaucratic government. Each region was governed by officials appointed by the emperor, rather than hereditary nobles. This move not only consolidated the emperor's power but also significantly reduced the influence of the nobility.

The emperor also standardized the units of measurement, currency, and writing systems, which facilitated trade and communication across the vast empire. The construction of a vast network of roads and the renowned Great Wall of China were among the major infrastructural projects undertaken during his reign.

Legalism

The Qin dynasty is particularly noted for its adherence to Legalism, a philosophical belief system that emphasized strict adherence to the law. The legalist scholar Li Si played a significant role in the implementation of these policies. The harshness of Legalist policies, including severe punishments for minor infractions, was a hallmark of Qin rule, which, while effective in maintaining order, also led to widespread resentment among the populace.

Fall of the Dynasty

The Qin dynasty was short-lived, with its decline beginning shortly after the death of Qin Shi Huang in 210 BC. His son, Qin Er Shi, proved to be an ineffective ruler, and his brief reign was marked by corruption and internal strife. The brutal policies of the Qin administration led to widespread rebellions, and the dynasty eventually fell in 206 BC, succeeded by the Han dynasty, which was founded by Liu Bang, one of the rebel leaders.

Legacy

Despite its brief duration, the Qin dynasty had a profound impact on Chinese history. Its achievements in statecraft and its military conquests set the stage for the stability and prosperity of the succeeding Han dynasty. The standardization policies of the Qin dynasty influenced the cultural and linguistic unity of China, which has been maintained through centuries.

See also

• History of China
• Chinese Emperor
• Terracotta Army