The Tang Dynasty

HISTORY

Ruled from 618 to 907, The Tang Dynasty was known as the Golden Age of Ancient China, with many individuals believing Taizong was one of the greatest Chinese emperors of all time. Taizong took over the throne in 626 by murdering two brothers and forcing the abandonment of his father. The previous dynasty before the Tang was the Sui, mainly centralizing in strict teachings in literature and examinations, but Taizong was able to lessen these harsh teachings and was able to find a balance between peaceful and strict teachings. Taizong believed in the Chinese philosophy of Daoism, meaning to be able to live in harmony and believing anything should have balance.

DAOISM / TAOISM

Centralizing the ideas of Wu Wei, Daoism (also known as Taoism) is one of three ancient philosophies that has shaped China for thousands of years. Daoist believers towards life were to accept and yield, being more joyful and carefree. Daoists are known to always have the theories of nature on reality in mind.

SIGNIFIGANT EVENTS

Largest Nation
During the timeline of the Tang Dynasty, China reached new heights becoming the largest and strongest nation in the world. China covered most of central Asia from Vietnam as far as Kazakhstan. China had the most populous nation in the world at the time as well.

First Criminal Code in China
The first official criminal code of china was made in 624 AD. It was made up of 500 articles citing various crimes and penalties. Some of the penalties included blows with a light stick, one hundred blows with a heavy rod, exile, penal servitude, or execution.

Painting Noticed
The Tang Dynasty period saw great achievements in many forms of artistic platforms such as painting, sculpture, calligraphy, music, dance, and literature. Also known for having the most well-known painters of the period like Wang Wei and Li Sixun.