Ancient China Test (Geography-religion)
There were three major religions or philosophies shaped many of the ideas and history of Ancient China and were termed as the three ways. The two most important geographical features were the Yellow River to the north and the Yangtze River to the south. Test out what else you recall about them by taking the quiz below.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
China was isolated because of...
- A.
The Mandate of Heaven
- B.
Harsh and cruel rulers
- C.
Confucianism
- D.
Geographic barriers like deserts, mountains, and bodies of water
Correct Answer
D. Geographic barriers like deserts, mountains, and bodies of waterExplanation
China was isolated because of geographic barriers like deserts, mountains, and bodies of water. These natural features made it difficult for outsiders to access China, limiting trade and contact with other civilizations. The deserts, such as the Gobi Desert, acted as barriers that were difficult to cross, while the mountains, like the Himalayas, created physical obstacles. Additionally, bodies of water, such as the Pacific Ocean, further isolated China from the rest of the world. As a result, China developed its own unique culture, traditions, and political systems, which were relatively unaffected by external influences.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which river is considered the longest river in China
- A.
Yellow
- B.
Huang
- C.
Chang
- D.
Nile
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
C. ChangExplanation
The Chang River is considered the longest river in China. It is also known as the Yangtze River and is the third longest river in the world. The Chang River plays a significant role in the culture, economy, and transportation of China. It flows through several major cities and is home to the famous Three Gorges Dam. The Yellow River, also known as the Huang River, is the second longest river in China. The Nile River is not located in China and is the longest river in Africa. Therefore, the correct answer is Chang.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Confucius can best be described as a
- A.
Poet and Writer
- B.
Teacher and Thinker
- C.
Religious Prophet
- D.
Ruler of a large Chinese Empire
Correct Answer
B. Teacher and ThinkerExplanation
Confucius can best be described as a teacher and thinker because he was a Chinese philosopher who emphasized the importance of moral values, ethics, and social harmony. He believed in the cultivation of personal virtues and the importance of education in shaping individuals and society. His teachings, recorded in the Analects, focused on topics such as filial piety, loyalty, and the proper conduct of individuals in society. Confucius' influence on Chinese culture and philosophy as a teacher and thinker is widely recognized.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which answer below defines dynasty?
- A.
Rule passed down from one family member to the next
- B.
A period of time.
- C.
A period of time where the same king rules the kingdom.
- D.
The right to rule
Correct Answer
A. Rule passed down from one family member to the nextExplanation
The correct answer is "rule passed down from one family member to the next." Dynasty refers to a system of governance where power and authority are transferred within a family lineage. This means that when one ruler passes away or abdicates, their position is inherited by a family member, typically a son or daughter. This practice ensures continuity in leadership and often results in a long-lasting ruling family.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of these are achievements of the Shang Dynasty?
- A.
bronze objects
- B.
Crossbows
- C.
Roads
- D.
Chariots
- E.
The 1st and the 4th answer
- F.
All
Correct Answer
A. bronze objectsExplanation
The Shang Dynasty is known for its achievements in creating bronze objects. They were skilled in bronze casting and produced various types of ceremonial and practical objects using this material. These bronze objects were highly valued and played a significant role in their culture and rituals.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which dynasty is characterized as having harsh, cruel rulers
Correct Answer
shangExplanation
The Shang dynasty is characterized as having harsh, cruel rulers. This is because historical records and archaeological evidence suggest that the rulers of the Shang dynasty were known for their brutal and oppressive rule. They often used violence and fear to maintain control over their subjects, and there are accounts of human sacrifices and brutal punishments during this period. This reputation for cruelty has been passed down through historical texts and legends, making the Shang dynasty synonymous with harsh rulers.Rate this question:
- 7.
Which dynasty is characterized as the earliest dynasty?
Correct Answer
shangExplanation
The Shang dynasty is characterized as the earliest dynasty. The Shang dynasty was the first recorded dynasty in ancient China, ruling from around 1600 BCE to 1046 BCE. It is known for its advancements in bronze casting, its development of a writing system using oracle bones, and its complex social structure. The Shang dynasty laid the foundation for later Chinese dynasties and had a significant impact on Chinese culture and history.Rate this question:
- 8.
Which dynasty used oracle bones?
Correct Answer
shangExplanation
The Shang dynasty is known for its use of oracle bones. Oracle bones were used for divination purposes, where questions were written on the bones and then heated until they cracked. The cracks were interpreted by diviners to provide answers and insights into the future. The practice of using oracle bones was a significant part of the religious and political practices during the Shang dynasty in ancient China.Rate this question:
- 9.
Which dynasty was best known for bronze metalworking?
Correct Answer
shangExplanation
The Shang dynasty is best known for its bronze metalworking. This ancient Chinese dynasty, which existed from around 1600 to 1046 BCE, was highly skilled in the art of bronze casting. They created intricate and beautifully crafted bronze vessels, weapons, and ceremonial objects. The Shang dynasty's mastery of bronze metalworking not only demonstrated their advanced technological capabilities but also served as a symbol of their wealth, power, and social status. The legacy of their bronze artistry has had a lasting impact on Chinese culture and art.Rate this question:
- 10.
Which dynasty created the crossbow?
Correct Answer
zhouExplanation
The Zhou dynasty is credited with creating the crossbow. The crossbow was a significant advancement in military technology, providing soldiers with a more powerful and accurate weapon compared to traditional bows. The Zhou dynasty, which ruled ancient China from 1046 to 256 BC, was known for its innovations and advancements in various fields, including warfare. The crossbow revolutionized warfare tactics and had a significant impact on battles and conquests during that time.Rate this question:
- 11.
Which dynasty's ruler was called the Son of Heaven?
Correct Answer
zhouExplanation
The Zhou dynasty's ruler was called the Son of Heaven because in ancient Chinese belief, the ruler was considered to be the intermediary between heaven and earth. The ruler was believed to have received the Mandate of Heaven, which granted them the divine right to rule. This title emphasized the ruler's authority and legitimacy, as they were seen as the chosen representative of the heavens on earth.Rate this question:
- 12.
Which dynasty is characterized by kind and just leadership/rulers
Correct Answer
zhouExplanation
The Zhou dynasty is characterized by kind and just leadership/rulers. This dynasty, which ruled ancient China from 1046 to 256 BCE, is known for its emphasis on virtue, morality, and the Mandate of Heaven. The Zhou rulers believed that their power was granted by the gods as long as they governed with benevolence and fairness. They promoted the idea of a just society and implemented policies that aimed to benefit the people. This focus on ethical leadership and the well-being of the populace distinguishes the Zhou dynasty as a period of kind and just rule.Rate this question:
- 13.
Most people in the Zhou dynasty were peasants.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
During the Zhou dynasty, which lasted for over 800 years, the majority of the population were peasants. Peasants formed the backbone of the society, working the land and producing food for themselves and the ruling class. They were responsible for the agricultural activities and contributed to the economy by providing food and other resources. The aristocracy and nobility, on the other hand, made up a smaller portion of the population. Therefore, it is accurate to say that most people in the Zhou dynasty were peasants.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The Gobi Desert contains silt which helped create fertile soil in the North China Plain
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The Gobi Desert does not contain silt, so it did not contribute to the creation of fertile soil in the North China Plain. The Gobi Desert is known for its arid and rocky terrain, with very little vegetation or soil suitable for agriculture. The fertile soil in the North China Plain is primarily a result of the Yellow River depositing sediment over thousands of years.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The North China Plain is where the first settlement of ancient Chinese people was located.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The North China Plain being the location of the first settlement of ancient Chinese people is a historically accurate statement. This region, known for its fertile soil and favorable climate, has been inhabited for thousands of years and is considered the cradle of Chinese civilization. The earliest evidence of human presence in this area dates back to the Neolithic period, around 10,000 years ago, when agriculture and settled communities began to emerge. The North China Plain has played a crucial role in the development of Chinese culture, society, and political systems throughout history.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which philosophy was characterized by living simply.
- A.
Confucianism
- B.
Daoism
- C.
Spiritual Traditions
- D.
None
Correct Answer
B. DaoismExplanation
Daoism is a philosophy that emphasizes living simply. It promotes the idea of living in harmony with the Dao, or the natural way of the universe. Daoists believe in simplicity and naturalness, valuing a simple and humble lifestyle over material possessions and worldly desires. They seek to align themselves with the flow of nature and avoid excessive desires and attachments. Therefore, Daoism is the philosophy that is characterized by living simply.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Which philosophy was eventually collected into a book called The Analects?
- A.
Confucianism
- B.
Daoism
- C.
Spiritual Tradition
Correct Answer
A. ConfucianismExplanation
The correct answer is Confucianism because The Analects is a book that contains the teachings and sayings of the Chinese philosopher Confucius. It is considered one of the most important texts in Confucianism and has had a significant influence on Chinese culture and society. The book covers various topics such as ethics, morality, governance, and personal conduct, providing guidance on how to live a virtuous and harmonious life.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Why were Daosim and Confucianism created by their respective thinkers?
- A.
To defeat the Shang
- B.
The rulers asked the thinkers to come up with a plan to help solve China's problems
- C.
To bring order to China
- D.
All of the Above
Correct Answer
C. To bring order to ChinaExplanation
Daoism and Confucianism were created by their respective thinkers to bring order to China. Both philosophies aimed to provide guidance and principles for individuals and society to live harmoniously and in accordance with the natural order of the universe. Daoism emphasized the importance of living in harmony with nature and embracing simplicity, while Confucianism focused on social relationships, ethics, and the cultivation of virtues. By promoting these principles, the thinkers believed that China would be able to achieve stability, peace, and a well-organized society.Rate this question:
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- 19.
A belief that still exists in China today is that ancestors should be honored
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In Chinese culture, there is a strong belief in honoring and respecting ancestors. This belief is deeply rooted in Confucianism and is still practiced today. Ancestors are considered to be an important part of the family and their spirits are believed to have a continued presence and influence on the lives of their descendants. To show respect and honor, Chinese people often perform rituals, visit ancestral graves, and hold ceremonies during important occasions. This belief in honoring ancestors is an integral part of Chinese traditions and customs, making the statement true.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The Zhou dynasty ruled for 600 years?
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because the Zhou dynasty actually ruled for around 800 years, not 600 years. The Zhou dynasty, which is considered the longest-lasting dynasty in Chinese history, began in 1046 BC and ended in 256 BC. Therefore, the correct answer is false.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Confucius lived right after the Warring States Period?
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Confucius did not live right after the Warring States Period. He lived during the Spring and Autumn Period, which preceded the Warring States Period. Confucius was born in 551 BCE, towards the end of the Spring and Autumn Period, and he died in 479 BCE, well before the start of the Warring States Period in 475 BCE. Therefore, the statement that Confucius lived right after the Warring States Period is false.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The Zhou began to lose power when...
- A.
The crossbow was invented
- B.
The Warring States Period ended
- C.
Confucius began teaching people his beliefs
- D.
The rulers began giving more power to the nobles
Correct Answer
D. The rulers began giving more power to the noblesExplanation
The correct answer is "the rulers began giving more power to the nobles." This answer suggests that the Zhou dynasty started to decline when the rulers started to decentralize power and grant more authority to the nobles. This shift in power dynamics weakened the central authority and led to the fragmentation of the Zhou dynasty.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The Five Relationships can be described as
- A.
A teaching of Laozi
- B.
A belief to bring about an orderly and stable society
- C.
A belief that to live simply would bring order and harmony
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
B. A belief to bring about an orderly and stable societyExplanation
The correct answer is "All of the above". The Five Relationships, as taught by Laozi, encompass the belief that living simply and following these relationships would bring about an orderly and stable society. This implies that all the given options are valid descriptions of the Five Relationships.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Oracle bones were NOT used...
- A.
To tell the future
- B.
To record events
- C.
By the Zhou
Correct Answer
C. By the ZhouExplanation
The given answer states that oracle bones were not used by the Zhou. This implies that the Zhou dynasty did not utilize oracle bones for any purpose. Oracle bones were actually used in ancient China for divination and recording events. However, the answer suggests that the Zhou dynasty did not employ this practice.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The Warring States Period occured during the Shang dynasty
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The Warring States Period did not occur during the Shang dynasty. It actually took place after the Shang dynasty, specifically during the Zhou dynasty in ancient China. This period was characterized by intense warfare and political turmoil among various states, which eventually led to the unification of China under the Qin dynasty.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The horse and the chariot were achievements of the Ancient Chinese even though they were isolated.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because even though the Ancient Chinese were isolated, they still managed to develop advancements such as the horse and the chariot. These achievements demonstrate their ingenuity and ability to innovate despite not having direct contact or influence from other civilizations. This highlights the independent progress and achievements of the Ancient Chinese civilization.Rate this question:
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- 27.
"To put the world right in order, we must first put the nation in order; to put the nation in order, we must first put the family in order; to put the family in order, we must first cultivate our personal life; we must first set our hearts right."This was said by...
- A.
Laozi
- B.
Confucius
- C.
Mrs. Wallace
- D.
Mrs. Weisenberger
Correct Answer
B. ConfuciusExplanation
Confucius is the correct answer because this quote reflects his teachings and philosophy. Confucius emphasized the importance of cultivating personal virtues and ethics as the foundation for creating a harmonious society and nation. He believed that by establishing order within oneself and the family, it would extend to the nation and ultimately contribute to the well-being of the world. This quote encapsulates Confucius' belief in the interconnectedness of personal, familial, and societal harmony.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Dark, cool, quiet are words that describe _______.
Correct Answer
yinExplanation
Dark, cool, and quiet are all characteristics associated with yin in traditional Chinese philosophy. Yin represents the feminine, passive, and dark aspects of the world. It is associated with qualities such as darkness, coldness, stillness, and quietness. Therefore, the words "dark, cool, quiet" are all suitable descriptions for yin.Rate this question:
- 29.
Yin and Yang are opposing forces but work together
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Yin and Yang are opposing forces in Chinese philosophy, representing the dualistic nature of the universe. While they are opposite, they also complement and rely on each other to maintain balance and harmony. This concept suggests that the two forces are interconnected and interdependent, and their interaction is necessary for the functioning of the world. Therefore, it is true that Yin and Yang are opposing forces but work together.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which statement is true about the Five Relationships
- A.
Wives must respect their husbands
- B.
Laozi created the Five Relationships
- C.
The higher status usually involved males
- D.
All of the Above
- E.
Only the 1st and 3rd option
Correct Answer
E. Only the 1st and 3rd optionExplanation
The correct answer is "Only the 1st and 3rd option". This means that the statement "Wives must respect their husbands" and "The higher status usually involved males" are both true about the Five Relationships. The Five Relationships are a concept in Confucianism that outline the social roles and hierarchies in society. According to Confucian teachings, wives are expected to show respect and obedience to their husbands, and traditionally, the higher status roles in these relationships were often held by males.Rate this question:
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- 31.
The Himalayan Mountains are located in which part of China?
- A.
North
- B.
West
- C.
East
Correct Answer
B. WestExplanation
The correct answer is West. The Himalayan Mountains are located in the western part of China. This region is known for its majestic peaks, including Mount Everest, which is the highest peak in the world. The western part of China is also home to other famous mountain ranges such as the Karakoram and the Kunlun Mountains. These mountains not only provide breathtaking scenery but also have significant cultural and ecological importance.Rate this question:
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