1. By Carly Suierveld & Rachel Tamborski

2.  Ruled from 206 B.C. to 220 A.D.  Created by Liu Bang eight years after he overthrew the Qin Dynasty.  Less strict policies than the previous dynasty.

3.  Used the Civil service system A government run by the most talented and learned men. An examination system was used to choose civil servants.  The exam included Confucian teachings, Chinese law, history and traditions. This system for choosing officials lasted until the early 1900s

4.  They were able to trade more than ever using the Silk Road. They carried Chinese jade, bronzes and silk westward for goods from the Mediterranean and India. The silk road is around 7,000 miles.

5.  They learned to make paper, which was an invention that did not reach Europe until another 1,000 years.  The dynasty was destroyed due to invaders.

6.  Han astronomers improved the calendar.  Han scientists invented a seismograph.  Medical colleges flourished.  Found timing a patient’s pulse can detect illness  Invented acupuncture.  Documented use of anesthetics and about typhoid fever.

7.  Used complex flood control systems  Fertilized soil to aid the growth of crops.  Developed the wheelbarrow, mill wheel, water clock and sundial  Improved stirrups to foot stirrups.