Start here · 1 min read
Overview
The Tang (618 to 907) and Song (960 to 1279) dynasties mark a long stretch of Chinese prosperity, urban growth and invention. Woodblock printing, movable type, gunpowder, the magnetic compass for navigation and paper money all appear or spread in this era. Tang Chang'an was among the largest cities in the world, and Song China had a commercial economy and a sophisticated examination system. The period raises a lasting question about why invention does or does not lead to continued change.
Context
After the Han collapsed in 220 CE, China was divided for about four centuries. The Sui dynasty reunified it in 581, built the Grand Canal and fell in 618. The Tang that replaced it inherited the canal and the idea of a single empire. Buddhism, brought along the Silk Road, was now widespread, and the Tang drew on Central Asian and Indian influences.
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Curator's notes
- Why it matters
- Printing, gunpowder, compass, paper money
- Use in training and coaching
- Innovation without openness to change stalls
- Empire
- Tang and Song China
- Dates (approx.)
- 618 – 1279
- Peak achievement
- Printing, gunpowder, compass, paper money
- Why it fell
- Rebellions; Mongol conquest
- Leadership lesson
- Innovation without openness to change stalls
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