Emperor Wudi of the Han Dynasty:
Years of Rule: 141 BCE to 87 BCE
Emperor Wudi the seventh emperor of the Han Dynasty, was one of the most influential figures in Chinese dynastic history. Although he accomplished many different things, some of his most influential feats include expanding trade to other countries and establishing a strong central government.
The Silk Road: After hearing from generals that had been sent out to explore other nations, that there were other countries that were as grand or grander than China, Emperor Wudi knew that it would be beneficial to start trading with these nations. In order to make trade easier between the countries, Emperor Wudi helped to develop what is now considered the Silk Road. The Silk Road was a 5000 mile long system of paths, bridges and roads that connected China to other civilizations and was instrumental in the trading of goods. Some of the most frequently traded goods were precious metals, ivory, silk, ceramics and furs. |
Government Positions Based On Academic Test Scores: In many Chinese dynasties, government positions were given to members of the royal family. The Han dynasty abolished this practice, and Emperor Wudi established a system of written exams. Anyone had the ability to take the test, and those received the highest scores were awarded government positions (also known as civil service positions). |