Shi Huangdi
Essential Question
What were the policies and accomplishments of Shi Huangdi/the Qin Dynasty?
Shi Huangdi & The Qin Dynasty
Shi Huangdi
Shi Huangdi (259-210 BCE, also known as Qin Shi Huang, was the first emperor of a unified China. The name `Shi Huangdi’ means `First Emperor’ and is a title, not a proper name. The Qin Dynasty he founded gave its name to China and it was he who first initiated the building of the Great Wall and construction of the Grand Canal.
Qin Dynasty
The Qin dynasty was brief in duration (221-206 BCE) but very important in Chinese history. It followed the Zhou dynasty (1046-256 BCE) and it ended when Liu Bang became the king of Han in 206 BCE (the formal beginning of the Han dynasty). The Qin dynasty left important marks on Chinese culture. In fact, the name "China" is derived from the name Qin (“Ch’in”).
Discussion Questions
What are some good achievements of Shi Huangdi?
Are there some policies of Shi Huangdi you disagree with? Why?
Activity 2: Shi Huangdi: Hero or Villain?
Read "Hero or Villain" and answer the following question. Shi Huangdi made many changes in China, some good and some bad. Overall, do you think Shi Huangdi is a hero or a villain? Write two paragraphs explaining why using evidence from today's lesson.
Extension Activity
Activity 1: Primary Source- Qin Dynasty: The Achievements of Shi Huangdi
Read the primary source excerpt on page 606-607 in your textbook and answer questions about The Achievements of Shi Huangdi. For each multiple choice question write 2-3 sentences explaining why your answer choice is correct. Remember to use details from the text to support you answer.