1. Introductie (vwo HC China 1842-2001)

Summary

This video explores the historical context of China, highlighting its unique timeline based on dynasties rather than the Western era system. It emphasizes the resistance against Western imperialism, particularly during the 8th century. The script discusses the significance of the Qin Dynasty and the concept of the emperor's 'Mandate of Heaven.' It also delves into Confucianism's influence on Chinese society, politics, and the hierarchical structure, including the rigorous civil service examination system designed to maintain order and harmony within the vast empire.

Takeaways

• 📚 The video discusses the historical context of China, focusing on the characteristics and aspects that define its history differently from Western perspectives.
• ⏳ Chinese historical timekeeping is based on dynasties rather than the Western method of dividing history into periods such as the Stone Age or the Industrial Revolution.
• 👑 The concept of a 'Son of Heaven' or emperor is central to Chinese history, with the first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, establishing the idea of imperial rule with a mandate from heaven.
• 🌏 China viewed itself as the 'Middle Kingdom,' considering itself the center of the world and superior to other nations, with a developed culture and political system.
• 🏛 Confucianism is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture and society, emphasizing order, harmony, and the importance of hierarchy and rituals.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The Five Relationships in Confucianism dictate the social structure, with the ruler being superior to the subjects, father to son, elder brother to younger, husband to wife, and friends being equals.
• 🏛 The Chinese administrative system was designed to maintain order and harmony, with a hierarchy that placed the emperor at the top, followed by officials and a vast bureaucracy.
• 📝 The imperial examination system was a rigorous process to select capable and trustworthy officials, with a very low pass rate, ensuring a knowledgeable and competent bureaucracy.
• 🌳 The fertile regions along the coast and major rivers were considered the 'real' China, and these areas were the focus of early development and governance.
• 🌳 The script also touches on the historical significance of the Qin dynasty's territory, which was smaller than modern China but represented the core of Chinese civilization at the time.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the video?

The main theme of the video is the historical context of China, focusing on the characteristics, aspects, and the resistance against Western European imperialism during a specific time period.

How does the Chinese historical timeline differ from the Western timeline?

The Chinese historical timeline is based on dynasties rather than the Western timeline which is based on eras such as the age of hunters and farmers or the age of television and computers.

What is the significance of the Qin Dynasty in Chinese history?

The Qin Dynasty is significant as it marks the first imperial dynasty in China, with the first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, who unified China and initiated major projects like the Great Wall.

Who was the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty and what year did he become emperor?

The first emperor of the Qin Dynasty was Qin Shi Huang, who became emperor in 221 BC.

What is the concept of the 'Mandate of Heaven' as mentioned in the script?

The 'Mandate of Heaven' is the belief that the emperor was chosen by the gods to rule and had divine authority, which justified his absolute power over the people.

How did the Chinese view their country in relation to other nations?

The Chinese viewed their country as the 'Middle Kingdom,' the center of the world, with all other nations revolving around it and being less developed.

What is Confucianism and how does it influence Chinese society and politics?

Confucianism is a philosophy based on the teachings of Confucius, emphasizing order, harmony, and the importance of social hierarchy and rituals. It has deeply influenced Chinese culture, society, and politics, promoting the idea of everyone knowing their place and adhering to established rituals.

What are the 'Five Relationships' in Confucianism?

The 'Five Relationships' in Confucianism are the relationships between ruler and subject, father and son, elder brother and younger brother, husband and wife, and friends, with each having specific roles and duties.

Why was there a strict examination system for civil servants in ancient China?

The strict examination system was in place to ensure that the vast empire of China was governed by knowledgeable, reliable, and capable civil servants, which was essential for maintaining order and harmony according to Confucian principles.

What was the pass rate for the civil service examination during the time of the Qin Dynasty?

The pass rate for the civil service examination was extremely low, with only about one percent of the participants passing.

How was China administratively divided during the time discussed in the script?

China was divided into prefectures, larger areas, provinces, and municipalities, with a vast bureaucracy to manage the empire effectively.