China
In 1200, the Song dynasty in China was strong and stable.
Korea, Vietnam, and Japan borrowed from Chinese culture and developed further, but they did not fully integrate into China.
A highly complex bureaucratic system with six ministries and the Censorate.
The civil service examination system was revived and expanded
Spread of printed books promoted education widely and allowed commoners to enter official careers through exams.
Basic Information
- Population: 50 million in 9th centry -> 120 million by 1200
- Agriculture: Champa Rice
- Urbanization: Hangzhou (Major city)
- Industry: Iron production and coal use increased
- Technology: Printing, gunpowder, compass, shipbuilding
- Market economy: Paper money and credit instruments (promissory notes, bills of exchange)
Decline of Women’s Status
- Confucian culture emphasized women’s obedience and weakness
- Foot binding emerged, symbolizing female submission and beauty
- Commercialization weakened women’s role in the textile industry
Neighbors
Korea
- King Sejong created the Korean alphabet, Hangul
- Women’s status also declined
Vietnam
- Maintained native cultural traditions, unique language, and social customs
- Women’s status was relatively higher
Japan
- Never be conquered, cultural borrowing was selective
- Samurai culture (martial values and loyalty)
- Native Shinto religion was never fully replaced