The Sui, Tang, and Song Dynasties

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Major changes in political structure, social and economic life define the Sui, Tang, and Song dynasties. Each period laid the foundation for the next, with changes and improvements to create a new order.

The Sui dynasty reigned from 581 – 618 A.D. The emperor built monasteries for both Buddhism and Daoism throughout the land, and appointed Buddhist monks as his key advisors. (Duiker, & Spielvogel, 2009) The Han system of examination based on the Confucian classics were revived. Taxation was reformed, and a census was introduced to create equitable tax collection. Also, a land grant was given to every taxable male. Once a male turned 60 years old, part of the land was returned to the government, the rest could be passed on to his heirs. (Halsall, 1998) This was also a time of great building. During the Sui, the Great wall was rebuilt, and the Grand Canal was constructed. Connecting the Huang, Huai, and Yangtze rivers, the Grand Canal had a huge impact on travel, trade, and socialization in China.

The Tang dynasty was founded in 618, and lasted until 907. The emperor was supreme and government officials were chosen by examination. A census was taken to simplify tax collection and to draft citizens to perform labor for the empire. This was a period of great land expansion. (Halsall, 1998) The emperor also had a great love of the arts, and the Tang became known as the golden age of literature and art. Block printing was invented and made writing more available. (Unknown, 2003) Shipbuilding and firearms development were also refined during the era. Art was heavily influenced by Buddhism, especially rock sculpture. One major problem that arose was the heavy burden of taxation. Many were unable to meet their heavy tax burden. To escape this, many placed themselves under the protection of great landlords who were exempt from taxes, or became bandits. (Halsall, 1998)

The Song dynasty is actually divided into two separate periods: The Northern Song from 960-1126 A.D. and the Southern Song from 1126-1279 A.D. The northwestern part of the country had been taken over by the nomadic tribes, forcing the emperor move the capital to Kaifeng, then later to Hangzhou during the southern Song period. They also lost control of Tibet. (Duiker, & Spielvogel, 2009) While they struggled with territory control, the Song strived in economic development and cultural achievement.

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