SOURCE2 The coat worn by the emperors showing the 12 symbols of power in China
The 12 symbols and their meaning A Moon — heaven and enlightenment B Fu —justice C Water weed —purity D Constellation — heaven and enlightenment E Axe — punishment
F Cups — respect for parents G Sun — heaven and enlightenment H Dragon — adaptability I Fire — brilliance J Mountains — earth and protection K Pheasant — literary achievements L Grain — abundance for the people
SkillBuilder discussion Using historical sources 1. What do the 12 symbols on the emperor’s coat represent, and how do they reflect the values and beliefs of ancient Chinese society? 2. How did the use of these symbols on the emperor’s coat signify his authority and divine right to rule? 3. Can you identify any similarities or differences between the symbols on the emperor’s coat and symbols of power in other cultures? Rebuilding China Millions of workers were set the task of rebuilding China after decades of Mongol war and conquest. Transport links were constructed with thousands of kilometres of roads and a Grand Canal was built linking north and south China. To protect against possible famine, granaries were built throughout the empire. Kublai Khan built schools, hospitals and orphanages, and established a regular postal service connecting every corner of his kingdom. 10.7.2 The khan also sent explorers to map China’s great river systems and record the geography of the vast land. This encouraged merchants to journey overland to the Middle East and South-East Asia, and eventually led to the development of trade links with Europe.
Jacaranda Humanities Alive 8 Victorian Curriculum Third Edition
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