漢語 (Hànyǔ): the Chinese language. The character 漢 (Hàn) is not random though, it comes from the Han dynasty, one of the most defining eras of China.
Beginning with the adoption of bureaucracy and Confucianism, these introductions set the stage for a peaceful four centuries (excluding the 14 years of turmoil in the middle). Along with Confucianism came an emphasis on the study of humanities such as literature and history. Men were expected to be highly educated in order to take the Civil Service exam, which would elevate their social standing if passed.
In order to flaunt their class, wealthy families filled their homes with lacquerware, bronze, and jewelry. In addition to expensive objects, the fashion of the Han dynasty was called 漢服 (hànfú), literally Han clothing. As a result of the silk trade, the smooth fabric became a hot commodity. Dark colors such as black, red, and brown were popular shades of fabric among the rich; lighter tones such as khaki and green were prevalent with the lower classes. Many of the Chinese patterns that we know today (tigers, dragons, phoenixes, clouds, and flowers) were also popular during the Han dynasty.
At the top of the social order was the emperor and his relatives. Since Han China was a patriarchal society, the emperor was revered as a god. Commoners were not allowed to use his name but instead used honorifics. The Chinese believed the color yellow belonged to the emperor, and thus were not allowed to use or wear it. To enter the palace without official permission was a death sentence, elevating the status of the emperor. Usually, the most powerful family member was the empress dowager, the emperor’s mother—however if the grandmother (grand empress dowager) was still alive, she exercised greater power. Surprisingly, the emperor often referred to the empress dowager for political decisions, and at times the mother dominated government affairs. She also had the power to appoint a new emperor should the standing one die. Next was the empress and other imperial concubines. If you’ve ever seen Crazy Rich Asians, the empress is like Suyi and the imperial concubine is like Nick’s mom. The concubines often tried to get their sons on the empress’ good side. All of these familial power balances simply echo Confucian sentiments of adhering to a social hierarchy to maintain peace.
Other than their noteworthy customs and culture, the Han dynasty is also credited with many inventions. Eunuch Cailun is credited with the creation of the first high-quality piece of paper. He combined tree bark, hemp, linen rags, and scraps from fishing nets to make one of the most popular back-to-school items. Glancing at the Golden Gate Bridge, it really makes you wonder how we got suspension bridges…the Han Dynasty! This era also saw the pioneering of the wheelbarrow, seismograph, and stirrups to name a few.
The production of paper
The Han dynasty was truly a defining time for China, however, all good things must come to an end. Due to natural disasters and a corrupt government, the enduring dynasty collapsed in 220 CE, giving way to a three-way split of the kingdom.