The period from the end of the Han Dynasty when an earlier yet modern version of China was being established marked the period of disunion in China. During this time, various factions and warlords fought to control the country. It was a chaotic time.
It was a key period in Chinese history, as most of the Chinese culture began during this period. Also, influential ideals laid the foundation for economic and political growth. This article provides information about what happened in this period of disunion.
Historians term this period as the Golden Age of Chinese dynasties. The Golden age lasted for over 300 years and left a lasting impact on society. The disunion came as a result of political instability, economic problems, and social unrest.
It began around 206 BCE-220 CE and went on for the next four hundred years or when the Tang Dynasty 618-907 CE started. There were three periods of disunion: the Three Kingdoms period (220-280), the Jin dynasty period (280-420), and the Southern and Northern dynasties period (420-589).Â
After the death of the Han Dynasty, three kingdoms were birthed. The kingdoms of Wu, Wei, and Shu. They collapsed after half a century and then the Jin dynasty took the reins. They ruled from 280 to 316 when they collapsed.
The Wei dynasty came into power and brought everything under control. They held more power over the country, however, soon after, the country was divided into the North and South. This lasted for 250 years.
The Southern Dynasty’s aristocracy was inherited. Hence, a person’s family social ranking determined the positions of power they could rise to. Aristocrats married themselves. The South was a place that gave room for growth and its economy flourished.
The North on the other hand faced constant warfare but saw great technological growth. The Northern Wei dynasty began Buddhism which eventually became the dominant religion. The diversity of Northern and Southern China is responsible for the diversity that China is known for as both sides became one again.
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