Choice 4- Achievements of Ancient China (12 grade level)
As a contribution to the website your history class is creating, you decide to write an argumentative essay that explores the greatest achievement of Ancient China. Your essay will be displayed on the website and will be read by students, teachers, and parents who visit the website.
Your assignment is to use the sources to write a multi-paragraph argumentative essay about what you believe is the most important achievement of Ancient China. Make sure you establish an argumentative claim, address potential counterarguments, and support your claim from the sources you have read. Develop your ideas clearly and use our own words, except when quoting directly from the sources. Be sure to reference the sources by title or number when using details or facts directly from the sources
Chinese Inventions Article
Newsela "The Cultural Heights of China's Han Dynasty
Write about how they invented gunpowder, the compass in 1100 A.D, and how they used Alcohol
Title: The Monumental Achievements of Ancient China: Revolutionizing Warfare, Navigation, and Medicinal Practices
Introduction:
Ancient China is renowned for its remarkable contributions to human civilization. Among the many achievements, gunpowder, the compass, and the utilization of alcohol stand out as some of the most significant. These innovations profoundly impacted warfare, navigation, and medicinal practices, revolutionizing the ancient world. In this essay, we will delve into these achievements, highlighting their importance and demonstrating why they are crucial to understanding the brilliance of Ancient China.
Paragraph 1: The Invention of Gunpowder
Gunpowder, invented during the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907 AD), redefined the world of warfare. The Chinese used saltpeter, sulfur, and charcoal to create a potent mixture that exploded when ignited. This invention gave rise to powerful weaponry such as flamethrowers, explosive-filled arrows, bombs, and fire-lances. By utilizing gunpowder-based weapons, the Chinese significantly bolstered their military capabilities, leading to greater political might and expanded territorial conquests. The impact of gunpowder on warfare is unparalleled, reshaping military strategies and forever altering the course of history.
Paragraph 2: The Compass and Maritime Navigation Advancement
In the 1100s AD, the Chinese invented the compass, a device that revolutionized navigation. The compass allowed mariners to determine their direction accurately, enabling greater exploration and trade expansion. With the ability to navigate more precisely using compasses, Chinese explorers like Zheng He conducted voyages, leading to the discovery of new trade routes and fostering cultural exchange. The compass's impact transcended geography, as it facilitated cultural diffusion and played a crucial role in the development of scientific methods, ensuring future advancements.
Paragraph 3: Alcohol's Multifaceted Utilization
The ancient Chinese not only invented alcohol but also recognized its various applications in medicine. Chinese alchemists during the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD) discovered the potential of using alcohol as an antiseptic and anesthetic. Alcohol's sterilizing properties proved invaluable in medical procedures, preventing infection and reducing pain. Furthermore, alcohol's ability to extract and preserve medicinal properties from herbs and plants led to advancements in herbal medicine. This knowledge significantly enhanced Chinese medical practices and laid the foundation for modern pharmaceutical discoveries.
Counterargument and Rebuttal:
Some might argue that other achievements, such as the Great Wall of China or the invention of paper, hold more significance. While these accomplishments are indeed critical in their own right, they do not compare to the lasting impact and widespread influence of gunpowder, the compass, and alcohol.
Conclusion:
The inventions of gunpowder, the compass, and the utilization of alcohol epitomize the ingenuity of Ancient China. Gunpowder revolutionized warfare, transforming military strategies globally. The compass paved the way for expanded trade and cultural exchange, expanding the horizons of human exploration. Alcohol's medicinal applications propelled the field of medicine forward, improving healthcare practices and facilitating the development of modern pharmaceuticals. These achievements demonstrate Ancient China's impact on the world, shaping various aspects of human life and leaving an indelible mark on history.