Han Dynasty

About

The Han Dynasty, spanning from 206 BCE to 220 CE, was a pivotal period in Chinese history, establishing a long-lasting imperial system. It succeeded the Qin Dynasty and was divided into two periods: the Western Han (202 BCE – 9 CE) and the Eastern Han (25–220 CE). The capital cities were Chang'an and Luoyang, respectively. During this era, Confucianism became the official philosophy, guiding education and governance. The dynasty saw significant economic growth, technological advancements, and cultural development, including the invention of paper and the seismograph. The Han Dynasty was marked by military conquests, particularly under Emperor Wu, who expanded the empire and established the Silk Road, facilitating trade and cultural exchange with India and the Mediterranean. The society was structured with an emperor at the top, supported by a bureaucracy and nobility. The economy flourished with industries like salt and iron, initially nationalized but later privatized. The period also saw the rise of Buddhism and the development of art, literature, and calligraphy. The Han legacy extends beyond its time, with the majority ethnic group in China identifying as Han Chinese, reflecting its enduring impact on Chinese identity and culture.