Unit 1- Post Classical Period

• Genghis Khan founded the Mongol Empire in 1206 CE.
• Mongols were skilled horsemen, archers, and warriors who conquered much of Asia and Eastern Europe.
• The Mongol Empire was the largest contiguous empire in history.
• Song Dynasty: 960-1279, utilized traditional methods of Confucianism and imperial bureaucracy to maintain and justify its rule.
• Confucian social hierarch:

  1. Emperor/Empresses
  2. Confucian Scholar Gentry
  3. Aristocracy
  4. Peasant Farmers & Artisans
  5. Merchants
• Emperors‘ leadership was divine Mandate of Heaven
• Tang Dynasty: 618-907, known as the golden age of Chinese civilization, embraced Buddhism and Taoism while maintaining Confucian values.
• Scholar Gentry ran by Chinese bureaucracy, made up of elites who studied Confucianism
• Tribute System (Kowtow): The Chinese paid tribute to the Mongols in the form of gold and silver, provide gifts, bowing at the Emperor for respect.
• Confucianism and Taoism are native to China and are philosophies that emphasize the importance of harmony and balance in life.
• Filial Piety: virtue of exhibiting the proper love and respect for one's parents, elders, and ancestors.