1.
Chinese civilization began within what river valley system?
Correct Answer
B. Huanghe or Yellow
Explanation
The correct answer is Huanghe or Yellow. The Huanghe or Yellow River is often considered the cradle of Chinese civilization as it played a crucial role in the development of agriculture and the establishment of early settlements. The river provided fertile soil for farming and transportation, allowing for the growth of communities and the emergence of complex societies in ancient China. The Yellow River Valley is also known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance in shaping Chinese history and civilization.
2.
The rationalization for the overthrow of the Shang based on the principle of divine judgment was called:
Correct Answer
C. The Mandate of Heaven
Explanation
The correct answer is "the Mandate of Heaven." The Mandate of Heaven was a concept in ancient China that justified the overthrow of a dynasty or ruler. According to this belief, the ruler was given the divine right to rule as long as they governed with virtue and maintained the well-being of the people. However, if a ruler became corrupt or failed to fulfill their duties, they would lose the Mandate of Heaven, and it would be justified for another ruler or dynasty to overthrow them. This concept was used to legitimize the overthrow of the Shang dynasty and the rise of the Zhou dynasty.
3.
During the Shang era, the practice of writing evolved from:
Correct Answer
A. Ritual divination using inscribed bones or shells
Explanation
During the Shang era, the practice of writing evolved from ritual divination using inscribed bones or shells. This suggests that the ancient Shang civilization used these bones or shells as a form of divination, where they would inscribe symbols or characters on them to seek guidance or answers from the spiritual realm. Over time, this practice of inscribing symbols evolved into a more sophisticated system of writing, laying the foundation for the development of a written language in ancient China.
4.
Which of the following most accurately describes Confucius?
Correct Answer
B. A social pHilosopHer obsessed with the need for order and harmony
Explanation
Confucius is most accurately described as a social philosopher obsessed with the need for order and harmony. This is because Confucius emphasized the importance of moral values, social relationships, and ethical behavior in creating a harmonious society. He believed in the concept of filial piety, respect for elders, and the proper conduct of individuals in various roles within society. Confucius' teachings focused on creating a balanced and orderly society through the cultivation of virtuous behavior and the practice of rituals.
5.
In the opinion of Confucius, the wise men best able to administer the government could only come from the:
Correct Answer
B. Shi
Explanation
According to Confucius, the wise men best able to administer the government could only come from the shi. The shi were the educated class in ancient China who were trained in various arts and sciences, including Confucian teachings. Confucius believed that those who had received proper education and moral cultivation were the most qualified to govern and make wise decisions for the benefit of the people. Therefore, he considered the shi to be the ideal candidates for positions of power and leadership in the government.
6.
According to Confucius, for what reason should superior men rule?
Correct Answer
B. To serve society as a whole
Explanation
Superior men should rule in order to serve society as a whole. According to Confucius, the role of a ruler is not for personal gain or to establish their own glory, but to fulfill their duty towards the greater good of society. They should prioritize the well-being and welfare of the people they govern, working towards the betterment of society as a whole rather than focusing on individual interests. This aligns with Confucius' teachings on the importance of benevolence and righteousness in leadership.
7.
Which of the following was NOT one of the ties of loyalty and obedience that held together Confucius's concept of social order?
Correct Answer
C. Merchant/peasant
8.
Which of the following represents the fundamental belief of Mencius, one of Confucius's disciples?
Correct Answer
A. Humans were by nature inclined to goodness and ought to be ruled in that fashion
Explanation
Mencius, one of Confucius's disciples, believed that humans were inherently inclined towards goodness. He believed that individuals had the potential to cultivate their moral character and become virtuous. Mencius also emphasized the importance of a benevolent ruler who would govern based on moral principles and guide people towards goodness. This belief in the innate goodness of humans and the need for virtuous rulers aligns with Mencius's philosophy.
9.
Which of the following represent the political viewpoint of the Legalists?
Correct Answer
D. Government should be rigorous and based on strict laws harshly executed
Explanation
The correct answer is "Government should be rigorous and based on strict laws harshly executed." This aligns with the political viewpoint of the Legalists, who believed in a strong and centralized government that enforced strict laws and punishments. They believed that humans were inherently selfish and needed strict control in order to maintain order and stability in society.
10.
Shi Huangdi was famed for his public building projects. Which of the the following is his most famous monumental structure?
Correct Answer
D. The Great Wall of China
Explanation
Shi Huangdi, also known as the First Emperor of China, was renowned for his extensive public building projects. Among these, his most famous monumental structure is the Great Wall of China. This colossal construction project was initiated to protect China from invasions and to establish a unified defense system. The Great Wall stretches over thousands of miles and is considered one of the greatest architectural achievements in history. It is a symbol of China's rich cultural heritage and a popular tourist attraction.
11.
What was the most significant accomplishment of the Qin dynasty?
Correct Answer
D. The unification of China under a "shi" bureaucracy
Explanation
The most significant accomplishment of the Qin dynasty was the unification of China under a "shi" bureaucracy. This means that they were able to establish a centralized government system that effectively governed the entire country. This unification brought stability and allowed for the implementation of various reforms and policies that shaped China's future. It was a crucial step in the development of a unified and powerful Chinese state.
12.
During the Han dynasty, the Shi evolved as a result of intermarriage with other social groups into the:
Correct Answer
D. Scholar-gentry
Explanation
During the Han dynasty, the Shi, who were originally educated peasants, evolved through intermarriage with other social groups into the scholar-gentry. This transformation allowed them to gain social status and become part of the ruling class. The scholar-gentry were highly educated individuals who held positions in the government bureaucracy and were known for their Confucian values and literary skills. They played a crucial role in the governance of the empire and were considered the intellectual and moral elite of society.
13.
What was the status of women during the Han dynasty?
Correct Answer
D. Despite the Confucian requirement for female deference to males, women during the Han had more freedom than during later dynasties
Explanation
During the Han dynasty, despite the Confucian requirement for female deference to males, women had more freedom than during later dynasties. This means that women were granted more rights and autonomy compared to the following dynasties. This suggests that women during the Han dynasty had a relatively higher status and were able to enjoy certain privileges and freedoms that were not available to them in later periods.
14.
The period of the later Han dynasty was politically troubled by struggles for power between the:
Correct Answer
C. Families of the imperial wives, the scholar-gentry, and the imperial eunuchs
Explanation
During the later Han dynasty, there were political struggles for power between various factions. These factions included the families of the imperial wives, the scholar-gentry, and the imperial eunuchs. These groups vied for influence and control over the imperial court, leading to political instability and power struggles within the dynasty.
15.
As the Zhou ability to control their vassals decreased, China entered:
Correct Answer
C. A long period of political conflict and social turmoil
Explanation
As the Zhou Dynasty's authority waned and their control over their vassals diminished, China entered a prolonged period of political chaos and social turmoil. The collapse of a centralized authority led to a power struggle between different factions and China was ravaged by unrest and conflict.
16.
Which of the following was a result of the period of political confusion following the fall of the Zhou dynasty?
Correct Answer
B. pHilosopHers sought to find ways to end the conflict and create more permanent and unified political systems
Explanation
Following the Zhou Dynasty's collapse, Chinese philosophers sought to end the political confusion, chaos, and conflict by creating more permanent and unified political order. Confucius and Laozi proposed different philosophies and ideas aiming to bring order and stability, and would later have a significant impact on the development of Chinese societal and political systems.
17.
Shi Huangdi was so concerned about controlling ideas in the Qin state that he
Correct Answer
D. Was so concerned about controlling ideas in the Qin state that he proposed the burning of all books other than Legalist tracts and a few other official volumes
Explanation
Shi Huangdi's proposal to burn all books other than Legalist texts and a few other official volumes shows his concern about controlling ideas in the Qin state, reflecting his authoritarian approach to governance and his determination to consolidate power. Shi Huangdi's desire to suppress any opposing ideologies or philosophies shows his belief in the power of censorship, and by eliminating alternative perspectives and ideals, the Emperor sought to maintain an obedient and unified society under the Legalist policy.
18.
What was the capital city of the Qin empire?
Correct Answer
C. Xianyang
Explanation
The capital city of the Qin empire was Xianyang.
19.
Which of the following statements concerning the peasantry during the Han dynasty is true?
Correct Answer
D. Many peasants had little or no land and worked for well-to-do landlords
Explanation
During the Han dynasty, many peasants had little or no land and were forced to work for wealthy landlords. This suggests that the majority of peasants did not have the means or opportunity to own their own land and were dependent on the landowners for their livelihood. This situation implies a significant wealth disparity between the landlords and the peasants, indicating that the peasantry did not enjoy general prosperity during this time.
20.
Which of the following was NOT a technological innovation of the Han period in China?
Correct Answer
A. Gunpowder
Explanation
Gunpowder was not invented during the Han Dynasty. Several important innovations took place during the Han Dynasty, including the wheelbarrow, brush pens, paper, advanced mining techniques, rudders, compasses, and the seismograph. Gunpowder, however, was not invented during the Han Dynasty but instead during the Tang Dynasty (618CE–907CE), centuries after the end of the Han Dynasty (206BCE–220CE). It was not until the 11th century CE, during the Song Dynasty (960CE-1276CE), that gunpowder became far more common and popular.