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Explore the foundational beliefs and significant empires of Ancient India and China, from Hinduism and Buddhism to the Maurya and Han Dynasties. Learn about the Caste System, Great Wall, Silk Road, and more.
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Both believed in Hinduism Buddhism Founded by Siddharta Gautama/Buddha Believed individuals must free themselves from desires Urged people to live moral lives Through meditation one might achieve enlightenment After his death the teachings spread but slowly declined. • Kharma: all the actions that affect a person’s fate in the next life • Dharma: an individual’s religious and moral duties • Nonviolevnce • The Cycle of Rebirth • No single founder • Many sacred texts • Evolved over 3500 years • Many groups added their own beliefs and gods • Gods are a form of an all powerful spiritual force • Ultimate goal is to become one with the force Christian’s Slide
Indian Empires • Maurya (321 B.C.-185 B.C.) • Asoka • Most honored Maurya emperor • Grandson of Chandragupta • Preached religious tolerance • Declined after Asoka’s death • Gupta (A.D. 320-550) • India enjoyed a golden age • Strong government • Trade and farming flourished • Stupas: large dome shaped shrines • Decimal system Kristian’s Slide
The Caste System • Closely linked to Hindu beliefs • A web of complex caste rules governed every aspect of life to ensure spiritual purity • Outcasts/Untouchables: life was harsh • Can only be changed by “law of karma” • Faced inequalities but ensured social order Tim’s Slide
Shi Huangdi • Abolished feudalism • Standardized weights and measurements • Great Wall • Approximately 5,500 miles • His most costly project • Hundreds of thousands worked on the wall • Many of those died Christian’s Slide
Han Dynasty • Silk Road • Trade route that linked China and the west • Stretched 4000 miles • Confucianism was the official belief • Civil service system: government officials are chose for their skills • Most technologically advanced civilization of the world at this time • Achievements • Science: the idea that no scientific theories should be accepted without proof • Medicine: acupuncture Tim’s Slide