Western Han

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Role of diplomacy extemely important. RB

The Western Han Dynasty lasted from 206BC-24AD. Founded by Liu Bang after a period of civil war, the government was based on political and economic reforms.Liu Bang recruited people for his government positions based on their abilities, meaning many former commoners got power in this dynasty. Also under the reign of Liu, the arts are flourishing. For the next few emperors, the economy steadily improved and the dynasty was stable. Under Emperor Wu(141-87BC) the dynasty was at its greatest strength. They defeated the Hun tribe trying to invade and then established the silk road. The dynasty ended under Liu Ying while they country was under revolution. Wang Mang took the throne and changed the empire's name to Xing.

Inventions

Looms were created to help make weaves faster. Steel and Iron are continued to be smelted using coal. Hydraulics are developed.

Commerce and Trade

Trade booms with the development of paper. Porcelain and art are traded. The Silk Road helps trade occur much more quickly and easily.

Art

Art and literature becomes more prominent due to paper. Sima Qian writes the famous book, 'Book of History'. Arts and paints are easier to use with the new porcelain. Astronomy is thought to have been used to map and record our solar system.

Source: http://www.travelchinaguide.com/intro/history/han/western.htm http://www.warriortours.com/intro/history/han/western.htm (I didn't use this one, but it is a good one)

Matthew Walsh