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Developments in East Asia from 1200-1450

Emily Wilson

Emily Wilson

8 min read

AP World History: Modern - East Asia Study Guide 🌏

Hey! Let's get you prepped for the AP exam with a super-focused review of East Asia. We'll break down everything you need to know, keep it engaging, and make sure you're feeling confident. Let's do this! 💪


🏛️ Dynasties of China: Sui, Tang, and Song

Overview

These dynasties are crucial! They represent a period of incredible growth and innovation in China. Understanding their distinct characteristics and contributions is key for the exam.


Sui Dynasty (581-618) 🚧

  • Reunification: Brought China back together under one rule after a long period of division.
  • Grand Canal: 🚢 Major engineering achievement connecting the Yellow and Yangtze Rivers, boosting trade and communication.
  • Short-Lived: Internal conflicts and instability led to its quick downfall.
  • Key takeaway: The Sui Dynasty laid the groundwork for the Tang's success.

Tang Dynasty (618-907) 🌟

  • Golden Age: Period of peace, prosperity, and cultural flourishing.
  • Cosmopolitan Culture: Influenced by trade and exchange with other parts of Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
  • Arts & Literature: Known for exceptional achievements in poetry, painting, and music.
  • Military Expansion: Conquests in Central Asia.
  • Decline: Internal issues, economic problems, and invasions led to its end.
  • Key takeaway: The Tang Dynasty is a model of cultural and economic success in Chinese history.

Song Dynasty (960-1279) 💡

  • Cultural and Technological Innovation: Significant advancements that impacted China and East Asia.
  • Economic Growth: Expansion of trade and the use of paper money.
  • Military Struggles: Faced challenges from the Jurchen-led Jin Dynasty.
  • Strong Government: Bureaucratic and merit-based system of administration.
  • Key takeaway: The Song Dynasty built on the Tang's foundations, focusing on economic and technological progress.

⚙️ Government Developments in the Song Dynasty

Key Concept

The Song Dynasty significantly advanced China's government through bureaucracy, meritocracy, and the civil service exam system.

  • Bureaucracy: A large, complex organization with a hierarchical structure, division of labor, and standardized procedures. Think of it as the 'nuts and bol...