Quck answer
The first emperor of China was Qin Shi Huang. He unified China in 221 BC and established the Qin dynasty. Qin Shi Huang implemented many reforms, including standardizing currency, writing, and measurements. He also built the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Army. However, his rule was also marked by a strict legal system and suppression of intellectual freedom. Qin Shi Huang’s reign ended in 210 BC with his death, but he left a lasting legacy as the first emperor to unite China and lay the foundation for future dynasties.
China, both in terms of land and population, is one of the largest countries globally. However, it was not always the unified nation it is today.
In 259 B.C., a boy named Ying Zheng was born into a royal family. His father was the king of Qin, one of the seven states that formed the territory known as China.
These seven states were constantly engaged in battles for territorial control, leading to this period of Chinese history being called the Warring States period.
Prince Zheng became King Zheng at the age of 13, ruling with the assistance of a regent until he turned 22 and assumed full control of Qin. King Zheng then embarked on a mission to conquer the other six states and unite China under his rule.
King Zheng systematically defeated each state one by one, starting with Han, followed by Zhao, Wei, Chu, Yan, and Qi. After successfully conquering all the states, King Zheng proclaimed himself Emperor of China and took on the name Shi Huang, meaning “first emperor.”
As emperor, Qin Shi Huang implemented significant reforms to establish a united China. He restructured the government, introduced a standardized currency, units of measurement, and a standardized writing system. These reforms aimed to prevent the conquered states from maintaining their independence.
The emperor also focused on infrastructure development, constructing a vast network of roads and canals to facilitate travel and trade. Additionally, he began the construction of the Great Wall of China to strengthen the nation’s defense against northern invaders.
Despite these reforms and improvements, Qin Shi Huang was viewed as a tyrant. He suppressed most forms of religion and demanded loyalty solely to him and his government. In his quest to rewrite China’s history, he ordered the destruction of numerous books.
Qin Shi Huang’s obsession with immortality led him to search for an elixir that would grant him eternal life. However, he was also preoccupied with the afterlife. During his reign, he commissioned the construction of a massive tomb resembling a small city. This tomb was guarded by over 8,000 life-sized terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots and was believed to be protected by rivers of poisonous mercury.
Give It a Try
Are you interested in exploring China? Enlist the help of a friend or family member and engage in the following activities:
Exploring Qin Shi Huang’s Tomb and Government
Video: History’s Tomb of China’s First Emperor
Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China, was laid to rest in an enormous tomb. Gain more knowledge by watching the online video, “History’s Tomb of China’s First Emperor.” Take notes and write down at least five facts you learn from the video.
Article: The Secret Tomb of China’s 1st Emperor
If you want to delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding Qin Shi Huang’s tomb, including the reason why it remains unexplored, visit the online article “The Secret Tomb of China’s 1st Emperor.” After reading it, consider whether the Chinese government should undertake excavation now or wait for further technological advancements.
Writing Task: Emperors and Government
Reflect on your country’s form of government. Would you prefer to live under an emperor’s rule, or do you find your current government system preferable? Compose a brief essay expressing your thoughts and provide detailed reasons to support your stance. Share your work with a friend or family member and seek their opinion on the matter.
Additional Resources
- For more information about Qin Shi Huang, visit http://www.ducksters.com/history/china/emperor_qin_shi_huang.php
- Check out https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qin_Shi_Huang for additional sources on Qin Shi Huang.
FAQ
1. Who was the first emperor of China?
The first emperor of China was Qin Shi Huang. He was born as Ying Zheng in 259 BC and became the king of the Qin state when he was just 13 years old. After unifying the seven warring states, he declared himself the first emperor of China in 221 BC.
2. What was Qin Shi Huang’s contribution to China?
Qin Shi Huang is famous for his numerous contributions to China. He implemented a standardized system of writing, currency, weights, and measures, which greatly improved communication and trade. He also began the construction of the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Army, which was his mausoleum.
3. How long did Qin Shi Huang rule?
Qin Shi Huang ruled China for 11 years from 221 BC until his death in 210 BC. During his reign, he made significant changes to the political, economic, and cultural systems of China, laying the foundation for the future dynasties.
4. Why is Qin Shi Huang considered an important figure in Chinese history?
Qin Shi Huang is considered an important figure in Chinese history because he successfully unified China for the first time. His reforms and policies helped shape the country’s governance and administration. The construction projects initiated by him, such as the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army, are also regarded as remarkable achievements.
5. What was the legacy of Qin Shi Huang?
The legacy of Qin Shi Huang is complex. While he unified China and implemented many reforms, his rule was also characterized by authoritarianism and cruelty. His obsession with immortality led to the persecution of scholars and the burning of books. However, his contributions laid the foundation for the subsequent dynasties and the development of Chinese civilization.
6. How did Qin Shi Huang die?
Qin Shi Huang died in 210 BC at the age of 49. The exact cause of his death is uncertain, but it is believed that he died from ingesting mercury pills, which he believed would grant him immortality. His death led to a power struggle among his successors and eventually the collapse of the Qin Dynasty.
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