8.1: Regional configurations of historical territories

China's "Golden Age" took place during the Song and Ming Dynasties, as well as the Mongol rule. This era saw a remarkable growth in population, thriving trade, and the emergence of new inventions that supported commercial growth. The introduction of paper money and the popularity of tea were notable developments, as were the inventions of gunpowder and the compass. During the Song dynasty, non-agricultural production played a vital role in China's economic success and industrialization. As the production of goods increased, so too did the expansion of cities. Additionally, the construction of the Grand Canal, which connected the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers, facilitated the transportation of agricultural products throughout the country, contributing to the unification of the economy. “Under the Mongol reign, the capital was established in Beijing and the massive Mongol empire stretched across the trade routes and Eurasian land mass. When the Ming dynasty started with the defeat of the Mongols, Chinese military and political control was reestablished. “China in 1492 was the oldest, largest, and richest civilization in the world.”[1]

China had invented the ability to mass-produce books and paper money two hundred years before Europe did. Despite the invention of paper in China, it was not widely used in Europe until the 14th century. The process of making paper involved soaking linen rags in large vats of water until they rotted, after which the resulting pulp was poured into molds and left to dry. The resulting large pieces of paper were ideal for use in the newly invented printing press. Moreover, paper was an affordable and accessible alternative to the expensive vellum used in Europe, enabling the widespread dissemination of information.

During the year 1185, a new military leadership and samurai class took control of Japan. Despite the existence of the emperor, he held no power, and the government was under the control of the "Shogun" or military leader. Japan's medieval period was quite similar to Medieval Europe, featuring castles, warriors, and a feudal governmental structure. The central government had little control over the rural barons, who established their own mini-fiefdoms, leading to constant warfare. Buddhism became the dominant religion, which furthered the development of tea ceremonies, intricate gardens complete with rocks and raked sand, tea houses, and other characteristics that are still prevalent today.

Angkor was selected as the capital city of the Khmer Empire, serving as the hub of political, spiritual, and cultural influence. The kings erected striking monuments to honor their gods, and their reign was deemed divine, with their actions serving as the law of the land. To fund their ambitious construction endeavors and maintain their political dominance, the king-imposed taxes on the populace. The rich and abundant land could sustain nearly one million inhabitants, as the Khmer ingeniously managed their water sources and expertly directed water for storage. “This enabled the Khmer to harvest rice three or four times per year, while most other civilizations in Southeast Asia could produce only one or two harvests. At the peak of the Khmer Empire, it is thought that farmers planted over 50 million fields of rice. The water management system was vital to the growth of these crops.”[2]

Today, the temples stand as the last remaining vestiges of a once-mighty empire. While Angkor Wat is undoubtedly the most famous of these ancient structures, there are many other stone temples and religious edifices that have managed to withstand the test of time. Unfortunately, buildings constructed of wood or palm leaves have not fared as well over the years. These temples were primarily erected to honor Hindu gods, although some also provided support for Buddhism. Moreover, they served as official state buildings and bolstered the power of the kings who ruled the land.

 

---

[1] Asia for Educator 

[2] The Khmer Empire.