The Qin Dynasty

By Morgan Kiebler, Jess Yohe, and Mike Luciano

Period 2

Dates of Rule

221 BCE-207 BCE  Recorded to be the shortest period in China’s History

Emperors

Qin Shihuang (221 BC-210 BC)

Qin Er Shi (210 BC-207 BC)

Chancellors

Li Si (221 BC-208 BC)

Zhao Gao (208 BC-207 BC)

Achievements

Standardized the language and writing during the Warring States Period Currency became standardized as a circular copper coin with a square hole in the middle A huge palace was built for the Qin Emperor Shihuang for which the dynasty is famousPublic works projects include: The Great Wall was built in the north, to protect against invaders Roads and irrigation canals were built throughout the country A 500 mile highway called Straight Road, and the building of several imperial roadways covering over 4200 miles in length were completed To ship grain and other foodstuffs from the mountains to the West River, a 3-mile wide canal covering 1250 miles was dug (still utilized today)

Notable Events

The Qin made many changes in their efforts to unify China and aid in administrative tasks. The Qin implemented a legalist form of government under which the former Qin territory was governed. The area was divided into 36 commanderies which were then subdivided into counties. The legalist form of government involved rewards and punishments to maintain order. The state had absolute control over its people and the former nobility lost all of its power.

Contact with Other Cultures

Accomplished a series of swift conquests

First ending the Zhou Dynasty

Eventually destroyed the remaining six states to gain control over the whole of China

Resulting in unified China

More Pictures!

Video Link

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