Step 4: Put It All Together

Now, take a step back and try to explain the big picture. Remember to use specific examples from the chapter in your answers.

Click here to download the exercise for Step 4 in MS Word.

CHINA

  • In what ways did late Tang and Song China defy the expectations of traditional Chinese historians?
  • Why, despite its growth and prosperity, did China become increasingly vulnerable to nomadic confederations under the Song?
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KOREA

  • In what ways was Korean society different from Chinese and Japanese society?
  • How did Korea’s leaders react to the presence of powerful nomadic confederations on their borders?
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JAPAN

  • Compare and contrast Japanese elite culture during the Heian period with Chinese elite culture under the Song. How would you explain the differences you note?
  • How and why did the power of Japanese samurai increase during the medieval period?
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LOOKING BACK, LOOKING AHEAD

  • Compare and contrast the place of China in the East Asian world before and after the period covered in this chapter. How would you explain the differences you note?
  • From 1500 on, East Asia would face an unprecedented maritime challenge from European states. How might developments in the period covered in this chapter have affected the ability of East Asian states to meet this challenge?
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