CLASSICAL CHINA
During the Classical Era, China underwent many changes through the rise of different dynasties. From the unstable, decentralized feudal system of the Zhou dynasty, to the highly centralized state of the Han dynasty, China remains one of the greatest civilizations of the world. During the Zhou dynasty (1027bce-256bce), a feudal monarchy ruled the civilization. Vassals controlled different regions of the land. The idea of the Mandate of Heaven originated in this dynasty. The Zhou dynasty was also the time of advances in philosophical behavior. It was the time of philosophers such as Confucius. The Qin dynasty (221bce-207bce), unification of China under one took place. A legalism government ruled the people. High taxes and mandatory public works shaped the nation. Besides being a strict period, the Qin dynasty pushed China into a central state of being. The Han dynasty (206bce-220ce) expanded the region due to military force. A new, centralized and strong government emerged. Education was very important. During this dynasty, many of China’s most important technologies were invented.
PERSIA
Persia (modern day Iran) was one of the largest empires ever. It spanned from Mesopotamia to the Indus river in the east, Egypt in the west, and Turkey in the north. Classical Persia was ruled under King Cyrus. Under Cyrus, the Persians established a strong and effective government. The Persians focused more on increasing trade throughout the region rather than destroying economies. They also standardized weights, created currency, and establish universal law. This administrative empire, built by Cyrus and his successors, was the basic template of upcoming future empires. Despite being a great empire, the kingdom did not last long. Through the conquests of Alexander the Great, Persia was swept then fell, now conquered by Alexander the Great.
INDIA
Classical India was influenced by outside world such as the “invasions” of the Aryan people. The Aryan culture mixed with the existing Indian culture, which found its way into the major works of literature and religious philosophy. Often invaded through vulnerable passes in the north, the Indian culture never really changed. Throughout time, the Indian civilization settled down into a more stable and coherent state of being. Social wise, caste systems were created. Each “caste” was catergorized by social interaction, occupation, private life, etc. The creation of Hinduism also defined Indian culture. Political leaders were often high class brahmans or priests, which advised kings/ emperors. Throughout history, India saw different empires. In the fourth century, the Mauryan Empire, and later towards the end of the Classical Era, the Gupta Empire.