Ming dynasty painting of the imperial examinations, which gave citizens the opportunity to be employed by the imperial government of China through meritocracy.[171]

China Broke the Pattern

Much of Eurasia leaned toward fragmented or feudal-style systems, but China often kept a centralized bureaucracy. That means the country was run by a strong central government with trained officials.

Post-classical History: Why China Was Different

Chinese-Song-era tapestry, Chinese Silk was carried west over large distancess

It Was the Biggest Economy Around

During the Sui, Tang, and Song dynasties, China remained the world's largest economy and one of its most technologically advanced societies. Gunpowder, woodblock printing, and the magnetic compass were all improved in this era.

Post-classical History: Why China Was Different

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