How did the Han government differ from Qin government?
The Han government differed from the Qin government in several ways:
1. Government Structure: The Qin government was highly centralized and autocratic, with power concentrated in the hands of the emperor. In contrast, the Han government had a more bureaucratic structure, with a civil service system known as the "Nine Ranks."
2. Legal System: The Qin government implemented a strict and harsh legal code, known as the "Legalist" philosophy, which emphasized strict punishments for even minor offenses. The Han government, on the other hand, adopted a more lenient and flexible approach to law, incorporating elements of Confucianism and Taoism into its legal system.
3. Cultural Policies: The Qin government imposed a series of policies aimed at suppressing intellectual and cultural diversity, such as the banning of Confucianism and the burning of books. The Han government, however, actively encouraged intellectual pursuits and cultural diversity, leading to a flourishing of arts, literature, and scholarship during the Han Dynasty.
4. Foreign Relations: The Qin government was expansionist and highly militaristic, using force to conquer neighboring states and consolidate its power. In contrast, the Han government pursued a more peaceful and diplomatic approach to foreign relations, seeking to establish alliances and engage in trade.
5. Legacy: While the Qin government was short-lived and remembered for its harsh rule and excessive centralization, the Han government lasted for over 400 years and is often seen as a period of stability, cultural development, and Chinese unity. The Han Dynasty laid the foundation for many aspects of Chinese civilization that continue to shape modern Chinese society.