Great Wall

Definition

The Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications made of various materials, including stone, brick, tamped earth, and wood, built to protect Chinese states and empires from invasions by nomadic tribes. During the Qin Dynasty, the Great Wall was significantly expanded and unified to enhance security and control over the northern borders, which reflected the dynasty's broader goals of standardization and reform across its territory.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Construction of the Great Wall began in the 7th century BCE, but it was during the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE) that major expansions were made to connect existing walls and build new sections.
2. The Great Wall served not only as a military defense but also as a means of border control, regulating trade and immigration along the Silk Road.
3. Laborers who built the Great Wall included soldiers, peasants, and prisoners, often working under harsh conditions with limited resources.
4. The construction techniques varied based on the local materials available; for example, rammed earth was commonly used in areas with fewer stones.
5. Over time, many sections of the Great Wall fell into disrepair or were destroyed due to natural erosion, but restoration efforts have continued into modern times.

Review Questions

• How did the expansion of the Great Wall during the Qin Dynasty reflect broader trends in governance at that time?
  • The expansion of the Great Wall during the Qin Dynasty illustrates how the government sought to unify and standardize its control over vast territories. By fortifying borders against external threats like nomadic invasions, the Qin established a strong central authority that emphasized security and stability. This effort aligned with their broader reforms in standardization across various aspects of society, such as currency and measurement systems, promoting cohesion within the empire.
• Evaluate the role of laborers in the construction of the Great Wall and how this reflects societal organization during the Qin Dynasty.
  • Laborers who constructed the Great Wall included soldiers, peasants, and convicts, highlighting a hierarchical social structure in which different classes contributed to state projects. The use of forced labor demonstrates how the Qin Dynasty mobilized resources for large-scale projects while reflecting the often harsh realities of life under authoritarian rule. This organization allowed for significant infrastructure development but also raised ethical concerns regarding human rights and exploitation.
• Assess the long-term impact of the Great Wall on Chinese identity and statecraft in subsequent dynasties.
  • The Great Wall has had a profound impact on Chinese identity and statecraft throughout history. It symbolizes national strength and resilience against foreign invasions while embodying the cultural significance of unity among various Chinese states. Subsequent dynasties maintained and rebuilt parts of the wall as a representation of their authority and commitment to defending Chinese territory. Its enduring legacy reflects ongoing themes in China's relationship with its northern neighbors and serves as a reminder of historical challenges faced by successive empires.

Related terms

Qin Dynasty: The first imperial dynasty of China, lasting from 221 to 206 BCE, known for its centralization of power and major reforms, including the unification of various states.

Standardization: The process initiated by the Qin Dynasty to create uniformity in systems such as currency, weights and measures, and writing to facilitate governance and trade.

Xiongnu: A confederation of nomadic tribes from Central Asia that posed a significant military threat to the Chinese states during the Qin and Han dynasties.