Sejarah di hujung minggu

First emperor of China, Shih, Huang-ti (c.259-c.210 BC)

Shih Huang-ti or the monarch known now as Qin Shi Huang was heir to the throne of Chin, a powerful feudal state in northwest China. On his accession he set about uniting China, annexing the other feudal states with ruthless efficiency, aided by espionage, bribery, and war. He proclaimed himself emperor in 221 BC, founding the Chin dynasty from which China derives its name.

During his reign, Shih Huang-ti destroyed the existing feudal structure and divided the empire into 36 provinces under a centralized administration. Networks of roads and canals were engineered, and the major part of the Great Wall was built. Weights, measures, coins, and written characters were standardized in a quest for cultural uniformity. Yet this also led to the burning of all books that diverged from official Chin philosophy and history.

On his death Shih Huang-ti was buried in great splendor - entombed among 6,000 terra-cotta soldiers for him to summon in the afterlife. His autocratic rule and belief in magic had caused such resentment that the Chin dynasty collapsed four years later, even though it formed the model for all later dynasties.

Interesting Facts

~ Acupuncture was first used as a medical treatment in 2700 BC by Chinese emperor Shen-Nung.

~ The 1st recorded use of marijuana as a medicinal drug occurred in 2737 B.C. by Chinese emperor Shen Nung.

~ Chinese Buddhist priest Hwui Shan reports of trip to Fusang (America) in 458 A.D. to Chinese Emperor Wu Ti.