Bronze, Blades, and Bamboo: Ancient Imperial China

Weekly Breakdown

Session 1: The Western Han Dynasty—China’s Golden Age

We begin with the Western Han Dynasty (206 BCE–9 CE), often considered one of China’s golden ages. This session explores how the Han solidified imperial power after the fall of the Qin, expanded trade along the Silk Road, and fostered the rise of Confucianism as state philosophy. Learn how the Han’s powerful emperors, such as Emperor Wu, transformed China into a vast empire through diplomacy, war, and innovative reforms that lasted for centuries.

Session 2: The Eastern Han Dynasty—The Rise of the Eunuchs and Rebellion

The Eastern Han Dynasty (25–220 CE) saw both incredible achievements and internal strife. In this session, you’ll explore the recovery of Han power after the brief interregnum, as well as the growing influence of court eunuchs and the devastating Yellow Turban Rebellion. This was a time of breakthroughs in science and technology, but also a prelude to chaos, as the dynasty’s internal struggles led to its collapse and set the stage for the Three Kingdoms period.

Session 3: The Three Kingdoms and the Jin Dynasty—An Era of Heroes

The fall of the Han paved the way for the legendary Three Kingdoms period (220–280 CE), immortalized in Chinese literature and folklore. In this session, we’ll dive into the epic battles and warlords that fought for control of China during this fragmented and war-torn period. You’ll meet famous figures like Cao Cao, Liu Bei, and Sun Quan, and explore the eventual reunification under the Jin Dynasty, which would bring a brief but fragile peace.

Session 4: The Northern and Southern Dynasties—Division and Cultural Flourishing

In this session, you’ll explore the Northern and Southern Dynasties (420–589 CE), a time of division and warfare, but also incredible cultural and religious developments. Despite the political fragmentation, this period saw the spread of Buddhism, advancements in art and literature, and the flourishing of Chinese culture across the fractured states. You’ll see how China’s regional differences laid the groundwork for future dynasties.

Session 5: The Sui and Early Tang Dynasty—Reunification and Renewal

The Sui Dynasty (581–618 CE) reunified China after centuries of division, but it was short-lived. However, the early Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) would usher in one of the most prosperous and influential eras in Chinese history. In this session, we’ll explore the rapid reunification under the Sui and the early brilliance of Tang emperors like Taizong, who helped solidify China’s dominance both at home and abroad.

Session 6: The Later Tang Dynasty—The Golden Age and Its Fall

We conclude the course with the later Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), a time when China reached new heights in culture, trade, and military power. This session will focus on the Tang’s zenith as a global superpower, with its vibrant cosmopolitan capital of Chang’an and flourishing Silk Road connections. We’ll also explore the internal decay, rebellions, and intrigue that led to the dynasty’s eventual decline and fall.

Join the Course

Experience the rise and fall of China’s most powerful dynasties through vivid storytelling and expert insights. The Dynasties of Ancient China will take you on a thrilling journey through war, innovation, philosophy, and culture, giving you the tools to understand not only the past but how it still shapes China today. Whether you’re a history lover or looking to dive into the incredible stories of ancient China, this course will bring these dynasties to life. Sign up now and step into the grandeur of China’s ancient world!