Mongol Dynasty

The Mongol Conquest

Genghis Khan unites Mongols – brutal attacks GK attacks north China Kublai Khan (grandson) conquers China Names himself the emperor Starts the Yuan dynasty (Mongol Ascendancy) First time China has been ruled by a foreigner

Life in Yuan China Mongol were different than the Chinese (language, gods, clothing, and customs) KK did not force the Chinese to accept Mongol way of life Mongols placed heavy taxes on Chinese Mongol soldiers kept the peace Marco Polo visits Yuan China – wrote about his travels, sparked interest in China

The End of the Yuan Dynasty Mongols attach Japan and fail Weak military and weak economy China rebels

Ming Dynasty

Great Sea Voyages

After Yuan collapses, Ming dynasty begins very stable Chinese improved their ships and sailing skills Zheng He – China’s greatest sailor, led 7 voyages all around Asia, huge fleets, served as a clear sign of China’s power

Great Building Projects

Ming were also known for their grand building projects Built the Forbidden City, imperial palace with government buildings and temples, common people were not allowed to enter Restoration of Great Wall of China

China Under the Ming

Ming dynasty worked to eliminate all foreign influences

Government

Ming emperors were very powerful Still used civil service examinations Appointed censors

Relations with Other Countries

Ming emperor made Zheng He return to China and dismantle his fleet Banned all foreign trade Entered a time of ISOLATIONISM – a policy of avoiding contact with other countries Consequences of Isolationism – 1) Western world made huge leaps in technology 2) Westerners began taking land in China – too weak to stop them – China’s glory faded