Page Title
History Projec 12
-Lailai, Jacob
Tang Taizong 600-649
The Tang Dynasty ruled for nearly 300 years from 618-907. The first emperor of the Tang Dynasty is Tang Taizong, who lasted from 626 to 649
Wu Zhao 625-705
Wu Zhao who was the first the the only empress in China. At first, Wu Zhao was one of the emperor's secondary wives. But, from about 660 on, she held the real power while weak emperors sat on the throne. Finally, in 690, Empress Wu assumed the title of emperor for herself-the only woman ever to do so in China.
Tang rulers further strengthened the central government of China. They expanded the network of roads and canals began by the Sui. This helped to pull the empire together. They also promoted foreign trade and agriculture. One of the most famous trade road is silk road. These action helps flourish the trade.
To enlarge the empire, the Tang rulers needed to restore China's bureaucracy. They did it by reviving and expanding the civil service examination system begun by Han dynasty, which means that everyone that can pass the formal exam can work for the government. It helped the emperors to select the smart people to work for the government and through the exam the government also could figure out who is good at what. Thus, people can work on the proper position and improved the empire. In addition, the test system also gave chance to poor people to move up. Thus, people would have more motivation on the test. Whereas, the test still had demerit. First, only man can take it. Second, only wealthy could afford the necessary years of education. Third, men with political connection did not need to take it, but they still can get the good position. Despite these flaws, the system could create a remarkably intelligent governing class in China.
Before the Chinese rebellion, the Tang already struggled to control the huge empire. In 751, Muslims defeat China at the Battle of Talas. As a result, Central Asia passed out of Chinese control and into foreign hands. After that time, border attacks and internal rebellion chipped away at the power of the government. The Tang failed.
