Sui Dynasty Research Paper

The Sui dynasty emerged in the late 6th century C.E. renewing dynastic control over China. Through the help of nomadic military commanders, the first emperor Wendi unified the traditional areas of Chinese civilization. Wendi’s army conquered the Zhou monarchy in the north and the Chen empire in the south. Returning peace to a tumultuous China since the fall of the Han dynasty. Wendi also established granaries throughout his domain, winning the favor of the public. These granaries maintained the price of food in markets in case of food shortages and defended against famine, Wendi’s son, Yangdi, reinstated the civil service exam. His policies restored the power of the Scholar-gentry and brought back Confucian learning. Additionally, emperor Yangdi started many extravagant construction projects, which comprised of many palaces and the Great Canal. The Great Canal linked the northern plains of China to the centers of Chinese civilization, increasing trade and communication within the dynasty.
The Tang dynasty emerged in the 10th century C.E., stabilizing the region after the fall of the Sui. Having once again reinstated the
civil service exam, Confucian learning was revived. However, they made the exam difficult, only those worthy could pass. Under the rule of Empress Wu, she built Buddhist temples, erected statues, and commissioned Buddhist-inspired artwork. In addition, the Tang built systems of canals, which increased commerce, improving the economy. Their openness to interact with others led to the diffusion of European, Asian, and Arab ideas. Furthermore, China excelled in maritime technology, possessing the most advanced ships, junks, of the time. The increased trade developed towns and cities across the empire. Since trade grew, flying money or credit vouchers were developed to reduce robberies and improve land trade routes. Many technological advancements were made. The invention of new tools, methods, and introduction to new seeds enhanced agriculture. Techniques for irrigation systems, bridge construction, and engineering in mountainous areas were pioneered by the Chinese of this time. The most significant creation was explosive powder, this would eventually revolutionize warfare to this day.
The Song dynasty began during the late 10th century, preventing another century of political division in China.
The Song Chinese founded neo-Confucianism by once again restoring Confucian learning and civil service exam. The protection of the silk routes caused trade to flourish, improving the economy. Also, the Song maintained the structures built by its predecessors, preserving and utilizing the when needed. The Song also advancing the technology introduced projectile weapons including flamethrowers, poisonous gasses, and rocket launchers. Furthermore, the Song developed flying kites, the abacus, and movable type printing. Particularly the movable type printing increased production of books, increasing the literacy rate to be highest it had ever been. The Song art and poetry reflected themes of nature, emphasizing its beauty and
magnificence.