Dynasties In Chinese History! Trivia Facts Quiz
When you look at the history of china and check to see its growths and rises, you will see that the Chinese dynasties have played a major role. The first known dynasty was the Xia dynasty, which is remembered for controlling the flooding from the yellow river and helping with a new way of life for the people in farming. Take this quiz and get to see what you might learn about this dynasty and the ones that came after it.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
In what century B.C.E. did Shi Huangdi emerge?
- A.
9th Century B.C.E.
- B.
3rd Century B.C.E.
- C.
7th Century B.C.E.
- D.
4th Century B.C.E.
Correct Answer
B. 3rd Century B.C.E.Explanation
Shi Huangdi, also known as Qin Shi Huang, emerged in the 3rd Century B.C.E. He was the first emperor of China and ruled from 221 to 210 B.C.E. During his reign, he unified China and implemented various reforms, including the standardization of writing, currency, and measurements. He is also known for the construction of the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Army. Therefore, the correct answer is the 3rd Century B.C.E.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The era of the Warring States followed which of the following dynasties?
- A.
Sung
- B.
Qin
- C.
Han
- D.
Zhou
Correct Answer
D. ZhouExplanation
The era of the Warring States followed the Zhou dynasty. The Zhou dynasty was the longest-lasting dynasty in Chinese history, and it was followed by a period of intense warfare and political instability known as the Warring States period. During this time, various states fought for control and dominance over China, leading to significant social, political, and military changes. The Warring States period eventually ended with the victory of the Qin state, which established the Qin dynasty and unified China under a centralized government.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The author of the Analects was
- A.
Confucius
- B.
Sunzi
- C.
Mencius
- D.
Xunzi
Correct Answer
A. ConfuciusExplanation
Confucius is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as the author of the Analects. The Analects is a collection of sayings and teachings attributed to Confucius, a Chinese philosopher who lived during the 5th century BCE. His ideas and teachings had a profound influence on Chinese society and culture, and the Analects became one of the most important texts in Confucianism. Confucius' emphasis on moral values, social harmony, and the importance of education are key themes found in the Analects, making him the most likely author of this text.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Confucius identified the superior men who should advise the rulers concerning government with
- A.
Shi
- B.
Feudal vassals of the emperor
- C.
The merchant class
- D.
Regional aristocrats
Correct Answer
A. ShiExplanation
Confucius identified the superior men, known as shi, as the individuals who should advise the rulers concerning government. The shi were considered to be intellectuals and scholars who possessed knowledge and wisdom. They were expected to provide guidance and counsel to the rulers based on their expertise in various areas such as ethics, history, and governance. Confucius believed that the shi's moral character and intellectual capabilities made them suitable for advising the rulers and contributing to the well-being of society.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following was not a teaching of Confucius?
- A.
Social harmony depended on each person accepting his social position and performing his social task
- B.
The interests and welfare of the common people were less significant than the maintenance of the emperor's authority
- C.
Order and harmony were the result of good government
- D.
Superior men were created by education, not birth
Correct Answer
B. The interests and welfare of the common people were less significant than the maintenance of the emperor's authorityExplanation
Confucius emphasized the importance of social harmony and believed that it could be achieved by each person accepting their social position and fulfilling their social responsibilities. He believed that order and harmony were the result of good government. Additionally, Confucius believed that superior men were created through education rather than being determined by birth. However, he did not teach that the interests and welfare of the common people were less significant than the maintenance of the emperor's authority.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which of the following was a disciple of Confucius?
- A.
Shang Yang
- B.
Xunzi
- C.
Sunzi
- D.
Laozi
Correct Answer
B. XunziExplanation
Xunzi was a disciple of Confucius. He was a philosopher and scholar who further developed Confucian teachings. Xunzi believed in the importance of education and self-cultivation to achieve moral excellence. He emphasized the need for individuals to strive for self-improvement and the importance of rituals and traditions in maintaining social order. Xunzi's teachings had a significant influence on Confucianism and played a crucial role in shaping Chinese philosophy and ethics.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following represents the fundamental belief of Mencius, one of Confucius's disciples?
- A.
Government should be rigorous and based on strict laws harshly executed
- B.
Humans were by nature inclined to goodness and ought to be ruled so that their goodness could develop
- C.
Humans should retreat from society and seek oneness with nature
- D.
Humans were by nature lazy and evil and ought to be ruled by an authoritarian government
Correct Answer
B. Humans were by nature inclined to goodness and ought to be ruled so that their goodness could developExplanation
Mencius, one of Confucius's disciples, believed that humans were inherently inclined towards goodness. He believed that individuals should be governed in a way that allows their inherent goodness to develop. This suggests that Mencius advocated for a form of government that nurtures and guides individuals towards moral development, rather than a strict and harsh authoritarian rule.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which philosopher said, "I take no action and the people are reformed. I do nothing and people become rich. I have no desires and people return to the good and simple life."
- A.
Mencius
- B.
Laozi
- C.
Confucius
- D.
Xunzi
Correct Answer
B. LaoziExplanation
Laozi is the correct answer because this quote aligns with the principles of Taoism, a philosophy attributed to Laozi. Taoism emphasizes the idea of wu wei, which means "non-action" or "effortless action." The quote suggests that by not interfering or forcing outcomes, positive changes occur naturally. This philosophy contrasts with the teachings of Confucius and Xunzi, who emphasized the importance of moral cultivation and active engagement in society. Mencius, another philosopher, focused on the inherent goodness of human nature and the importance of cultivating virtues.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Daoism was developed by the philosopher.
- A.
Mencius
- B.
Confucius
- C.
Xunzi
- D.
Laozi
Correct Answer
D. LaoziExplanation
Laozi is the correct answer because he is the philosopher who is credited with developing Daoism. Laozi, also known as Lao Tzu, is believed to have written the foundational text of Daoism, the Tao Te Ching. He emphasized the importance of living in harmony with the natural flow of the universe and advocated for a simple and humble way of life. Laozi's teachings had a significant influence on the development of Daoism as a philosophical and spiritual tradition in ancient China.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The dynasty that followed the Zhou was the
- A.
Shang
- B.
Sung
- C.
Han
- D.
Qin
Correct Answer
D. QinExplanation
The correct answer is Qin. The question is asking about the dynasty that came after the Zhou dynasty. Among the given options, the Qin dynasty is the correct answer. The Qin dynasty succeeded the Zhou dynasty in ancient China and is known for its significant contributions to Chinese history, such as the unification of China, the construction of the Great Wall, and the establishment of a centralized bureaucratic system.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The founder of the Legalist school of political philosophy was
- A.
Sunzi
- B.
Wang Mang
- C.
Laozi
- D.
Shang Yang
Correct Answer
D. Shang YangExplanation
Shang Yang is the correct answer because he is widely recognized as the founder of the Legalist school of political philosophy in ancient China. Legalism emphasized strict laws, strong central authority, and harsh punishments to maintain social order and control. Shang Yang's ideas greatly influenced the Qin dynasty and laid the foundation for its legalistic governance system. His policies focused on strengthening the state and centralizing power, making him a key figure in the development of Chinese political thought.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The emperor responsible for the reunification of China after the collapse of the Zhou was
- A.
Han Wudi
- B.
Han Feizi
- C.
Shi Huangdi
- D.
Shang Yang
Correct Answer
C. Shi HuangdiExplanation
Shi Huangdi is the correct answer because he was the emperor responsible for the reunification of China after the collapse of the Zhou dynasty. He ruled during the Qin dynasty and implemented various reforms, including the standardization of weights, measures, and the Chinese script. He also constructed the Great Wall of China and ordered the burning of books and the burial of scholars. Shi Huangdi's reign marked a significant period in Chinese history and laid the foundation for the centralized imperial system that would continue for centuries.Rate this question:
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- 13.
With which school of political philosophy was Shi Huangdi and his government associated?
- A.
Mencius's
- B.
Daoism
- C.
Confucian
- D.
Legalists
Correct Answer
D. LegalistsExplanation
Shi Huangdi and his government were associated with the school of political philosophy known as Legalists. This philosophy emphasized strict laws, centralized control, and harsh punishments to maintain order and stability. Legalists believed in the absolute power of the ruler and the need for a strong and efficient government to control the people. This aligns with Shi Huangdi's policies, such as his implementation of a standardized legal code and his centralization of power in the Qin Dynasty.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following represents the political philosophy of Sunzi?
- A.
Government should be exercised by superior men found among the educated elite
- B.
Government is inconsequential to finding satisfaction in the unity of nature
- C.
Warfare is merely an extension of statecraft and required scientific preparation and execution
- D.
Government should be based on the authoritarian enforcement of rigorous laws
Correct Answer
C. Warfare is merely an extension of statecraft and required scientific preparation and executionExplanation
The correct answer is "Warfare is merely an extension of statecraft and required scientific preparation and execution." This answer aligns with Sunzi's political philosophy as expressed in his book "The Art of War." Sunzi believed that warfare was an integral part of statecraft and that it required careful planning, strategy, and execution. He emphasized the importance of understanding the enemy, exploiting their weaknesses, and using deception and intelligence to gain an advantage. Sunzi's philosophy focused on the practical aspects of warfare and the importance of preparation and skill in achieving success in battle.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Liu Bang was the founder of what dynasty?
- A.
Sung
- B.
Han
- C.
Qin
- D.
Shang
Correct Answer
B. HanExplanation
Liu Bang was the founder of the Han dynasty. The Han dynasty was one of the most influential and long-lasting dynasties in Chinese history, lasting for over 400 years. Liu Bang, also known as Emperor Gaozu, rose to power after the collapse of the Qin dynasty and established the Han dynasty in 202 BC. Under his rule, the Han dynasty implemented various reforms and policies that helped stabilize the country and promote economic growth. Liu Bang's leadership and the establishment of the Han dynasty had a significant impact on Chinese history and culture.Rate this question:
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- 16.
What were the attitude of Han Wudi and subsequent emperors toward the regional aristocracy and the shi?
- A.
They restored the strength of the regional states in the hands of feudal lords to diminish the growing power of the shi
- B.
The dynastic feudal lords were destroyed but replaced by members of the Han family in order to prevent the growing authority of the shi
- C.
Both regional feudal lords and shi were replaced in the Han administration by salaried military commanders from the army
- D.
They attempted to undercut the authority of the regional aristocracy and place power in the hands of appointed shi governors.
Correct Answer
D. They attempted to undercut the authority of the regional aristocracy and place power in the hands of appointed shi governors.Explanation
Han Wudi and subsequent emperors aimed to weaken the regional aristocracy and transfer power to appointed shi governors. This suggests that they wanted to diminish the influence and authority of the regional aristocracy and instead rely on appointed officials to govern. By doing so, they hoped to centralize power and maintain control over the growing power of the shi class. This approach indicates a deliberate attempt to undermine the regional aristocracy and consolidate power within the Han administration.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Which of the following was not one of the areas added to China as a result of expansion during the Han dynasty?
- A.
Temporarily the territory of the Hsiung-nu
- B.
Korea
- C.
Japan
- D.
Vietnam
Correct Answer
C. JapanExplanation
During the Han dynasty, China expanded its territory through various conquests and annexations. Korea, Vietnam, and temporarily the territory of the Hsiung-nu were all areas that were added to China as a result of expansion during this time. However, Japan was not one of the areas added to China during the Han dynasty. Japan has historically maintained its independence and was never directly ruled by China.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which of the following was the dominant political philosophy during the Han dynasty?
- A.
Legalists
- B.
Confucian
- C.
Shang Yang's
- D.
Daoism
Correct Answer
B. ConfucianExplanation
Confucianism was the dominant political philosophy during the Han dynasty. Confucianism emphasized the importance of social harmony, moral values, and the proper behavior of individuals in society. It advocated for a strong central government led by virtuous rulers who would set a good example for the people. Confucianism also emphasized the importance of education and the cultivation of personal virtues. This philosophy had a profound influence on the political and social structure of the Han dynasty, shaping its governance and policies.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which of the following social groups had the lowest social status according to the political philosophy of the Han dynasty?
- A.
Imperial family
- B.
Peasants
- C.
Merchants
- D.
Shi
Correct Answer
C. MerchantsExplanation
Merchants had the lowest social status according to the political philosophy of the Han dynasty. This is because the Han dynasty placed a high value on agriculture and viewed merchants as profiting from the labor of others without contributing to the production of goods. Merchants were seen as a lower social group compared to the imperial family, who held the highest status, and the peasants, who were considered the backbone of society. The shi, or scholar-officials, also held a higher social status due to their education and service to the government.Rate this question:
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- 20.
During the Han dynasty, the shi evolved as a result of intermarriage with
- A.
The imperial family
- B.
The merchant class
- C.
The regional landholders
- D.
The peasantry
Correct Answer
C. The regional landholdersExplanation
During the Han dynasty, the shi, which refers to the educated class, evolved as a result of intermarriage with the regional landholders. This intermarriage allowed the shi to gain wealth and land, which increased their social status and influence. The regional landholders were already established as a wealthy and influential class, so their intermarriage with the shi further solidified their power and status. This intermarriage also helped to strengthen the ties between the shi and the regional landholders, leading to a closer relationship and mutual support between the two groups.Rate this question:
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- 21.
During the Han dynasty, the "forbidden city" referred to
- A.
The precinct of palaces reserved for the imperial family in the Han capital
- B.
The administrative precinct of the scholar-gentry in the Han capital
- C.
The burial site of Confucius
- D.
The religious precinct associated with Daoism in the Han capital
Correct Answer
A. The precinct of palaces reserved for the imperial family in the Han capitalExplanation
During the Han dynasty, the "forbidden city" referred to the precinct of palaces reserved for the imperial family in the Han capital. This means that it was an area exclusively designated for the residence and activities of the ruling family. It was a highly restricted and private area, inaccessible to the general public and serving as the political and ceremonial center of the empire. The term "forbidden" implies that it was off-limits to anyone who was not a member of the imperial family or their close associates.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which of the following statements most accurately describes the nature of Chinese philosophy during the classical period?
- A.
Chinese scientific explorations were all devoted to earth sciences, as they ignored astronomy and cosmology
- B.
The Chinese were almost exclusively interested in alchemy and magic
- C.
Chinese science was more involved with practical applications than general theories
- D.
Chinese science was based on the development of speculative general theories that represented what they perceived as natural law
Correct Answer
D. Chinese science was based on the development of speculative general theories that represented what they perceived as natural lawExplanation
During the classical period, Chinese philosophy focused on the development of speculative general theories that represented what they perceived as natural law. Chinese science was not limited to earth sciences, as they also explored astronomy and cosmology. While alchemy and magic may have been of some interest, they were not the primary focus. Chinese science was known for its practical applications, but it also emphasized the development of theoretical frameworks to understand the natural world.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which of the following groups was not involved in the political struggle during the later Han dynasty?
- A.
The merchants
- B.
The scholar-gentry
- C.
The court eunuchs
- D.
The families of imperial wives
Correct Answer
A. The merchantsExplanation
During the later Han dynasty, the merchants were not actively involved in the political struggle. The political power during this period was primarily held by the scholar-gentry, who were educated officials, and the court eunuchs, who held significant influence over the emperor. Additionally, the families of imperial wives also played a role in the political landscape. However, the merchants, although influential in terms of wealth and trade, did not have a direct role in the political struggle during this time.Rate this question:
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Mar 20, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Feb 25, 2011Quiz Created by
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