China, Now and Then
All the way from clothing they wear to the inventions made.
Ancient China
Technological Advances
BC Times
The first big invention is the compass. It was made in BC times. It was made so they wouldn't get lost. The compass was able to tell which way was north, south, east, and west. Other inventions are, silk and a more efficient plow. Silk was founded during 500 BC. They mainly used it as clothing and a trade product, mostly because it was beautiful and long lasting. The more efficient plow helped increase crop production because it made the crops grow faster by turning the soil.
AD Times
Another invention was paper. They figured out how to make it in 105 AD. It was made to make all types of learning easier and to keep records. Also the major invention, gunpowder. It was made in 618-906 AD times. You put the gunpowder in a gun, then you can defend yourself with the gun. Last but not least, printing (woodblock and movable type). It also made writing easier because you could just copy down basic stuff you would need to know.
What Kept China From Sharing the Inventions
Ancient China wanted to be known as the smartest country in the world. Even if that means not making all the money possible. They didn't want to share any of the technology they discovered because they didn't want anyone to copy it to make something even better. So that meant that they kept all their knowledge to themselves. Of course soon the rest of the world will find out and pay bunches to find out how to make it or buy it.
COMPASS
SILK
PAPER
Popular Philosophies
There is 3 very big philosophies, Legalism, Confucianism, and Daoism.
Confucianism
Confucianism is probably the most popular. Its belief system is to end all conflict and create peace in every relationship and way possible. The 3 rules are:
1.) Be sincere, well-mannered, and unselfish
2.) Obey and respect laws and traditions
3.) Work hard and respect learning
You also have get along with these 5 relationships:
1.) father and son
2.) elder brother and junior brother
3.) husband and wife
4.) friend and friend
5.) ruler and subject
Legalism
Legalism is a belief that rulers should use the legal system to enforce the laws and make people follow them. If these strict laws were not to be followed there would be harsh, harsh punishments.
Daoism
An individual had to learn to treat nature as any other living person or thing. Also to live nicely with any inner feelings. They have to live in harmony with all creatures.
Clothing
Silk is made from silkworms, little worms that wrap up in cocoons like butterflies. The silk is unraveled from the cocoon like a thread on a spool.
What the Rich Wore
The rich wore very fine clothing made from silk. Most was red, blue, or orange and had symbols on it.
What the Poor Wore
The poor wore rough very cheap clothing. None could afford the silk that was made.
From google images
From google images
Living Conditions
Family/Society Roles
Common Institutions
Current China
Popular Religions
Taoism
Its belief is to live in harmony with nature and not yearn to reach fame or fortune. You also have to believe that there should be no interference with any type of government issues.
Christianity
It is the belief in one God and that everyone else who believes in him are his followers. Christians believe that Jesus died for their sins. This makes freedom from sin and death possible for everyone.
Buddhism
It is based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama. Later he was referred to as Buddha or enlightened one. This religion focuses on helping people who are suffering.
Current Traditions/Beliefs
Spring Festival
One recent tradition that is popular is the Spring Festival. It is known as a time to start new or a fresh start. What happens during this time is everyone cleans their houses, puts on very nice, fine silk clothing and they go around visiting with other people. The Chinese go around in other peoples houses to visit and mingle with other people who just happen to be in the house as the same time as you. There is also a parade walking around town. There are dragons and lanterns and many more stuff.