Question 1: Ancient China is one of the world's earliest civilizations, with origins dating back over 4,000 years. It saw the rise of dynasties such as the Shang and Zhou, the development of important philosophies like Confucianism and Daoism, and significant inventions including paper and gunpowder. Key dates include the unification under Qin Shi Huang in 221 BC and the establishment of the Han Dynasty in 206 BC. Understanding this history helps us appreciate China's long-lasting influence on culture and governance.

Answer:

Question 1: When did the Qin Dynasty unify China under Emperor Qin Shi Huang?

Answer: 221 BC

Question 2: Which philosophical school emphasized filial piety and social harmony in Ancient China?

Answer: Confucianism

Question 3: Name one major invention of Ancient China.

Answer: Paper (or gunpowder, compass, printing)

Question 4: What was the purpose of the Terracotta Army?

Answer: To protect Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife

Question 5: Which dynasty is known for the development of the Silk Road?

Answer: Han Dynasty

Question 1: Source: 'The Great Wall of China was built to keep out northern invaders and protect Chinese civilization.' What was the purpose of this source, and how reliable is it?

Answer: The purpose is to explain the reason for building the Great Wall; it is generally reliable as it reflects known historical reasons, though it simplifies complex motivations.

Question 2: A Chinese historian writes: 'The Han Dynasty expanded China's influence through trade and cultural exchange.' What does this source suggest about Han China’s role in regional history?

Answer: It suggests that the Han Dynasty was influential in promoting trade, notably along the Silk Road, and spreading Chinese culture beyond its borders.

Question 3: Evaluate the reliability of a secondary source claiming that 'Confucianism shaped Chinese society for over 2,000 years.'

Answer: The statement is reliable as it is supported by historical evidence of Confucian principles influencing governance, education, and social behavior for centuries.

Question 1: Explain why the development of standardized writing and weights was important during the Qin Dynasty.

Answer: Standardized writing and weights facilitated communication, trade, and administration across China, strengthening central control and unity under the Qin Empire.

Question 2: Describe how Confucian ideas influenced the governance of the Han Dynasty.

Answer: Confucian ideas emphasized moral virtue and filial piety, leading to the development of a civil service exam system that promoted officials based on merit and ethical principles.

Question 3: Explain the significance of the invention of paper in Ancient China.

Answer: The invention of paper revolutionized record-keeping, education, and communication, enabling the spread of knowledge and culture throughout China and beyond.

Question 1: To what extent was the Qin Dynasty responsible for unifying China? Consider political, cultural, and technological factors.

Answer: Model answer: The Qin Dynasty played a crucial role in unifying China through centralization of power, standardization of laws, weights, and writing, and major infrastructure projects like the Great Wall. While prior states laid some groundwork, Qin’s reforms and military conquest were decisive in establishing a unified empire. However, its harsh rule and rapid collapse suggest that unification was not entirely stable or solely due to Qin efforts.

Question 2: How far do you agree that Confucianism was the most important influence on Chinese society during the Han Dynasty?

Answer: Model answer: Confucianism profoundly influenced Han society, shaping moral values, education, and governance. Its emphasis on filial piety and social harmony promoted stability and order. However, other influences like Daoism and Legalism also played roles. Overall, Confucian ideals became central to Chinese identity and political philosophy during this period.