The Han dynasty builds the scholar-state
The Han adopted Confucianism as state ideology, founded an imperial academy, and selected officials by examination — government by educated merit.
Why it matters
The Han fused ethics with administration and invented the examination-based civil service; the Han era was contemporary with Rome yet its institutions shaped East Asia long after Rome fell.
People
Emperor Wu of Han
Related events
Sources
- Encyclopædia Britannica — Han dynasty