Who was the first emperor of a unified China, known for his massive tomb guarded by the Terracotta Army?

• A. Liu Bang
• B. Wudi
• C. Qin Shi Huang
• D. Han Wudi

Answer: (C)

The first emperor of a unified China is Qin Shi Huang, who ruled from 221 to 210 BCE. His significance in Chinese history is immense, as he was the one who ended the Warring States period by unifying various feudal states into a centralized and cohesive empire. He is renowned for implementing major reforms that laid the foundation for the future Chinese state, including standardizing measurements, currency, and even the writing system.

One of Qin Shi Huang's most remarkable legacy pieces is his massive burial complex, which includes the famous Terracotta Army. Discovered in 1974, this vast array of life-sized statues was constructed to guard him in the afterlife and reflect his power and the sophisticated craftsmanship of the time. The sheer scale and artistic details of the Terracotta Army illustrate not only the emperor's vast wealth but also his ambition to secure his legacy and seek immortality.

His reign was marked by significant construction projects, including the early phases of what would become the Great Wall of China. Overall, Qin Shi Huang stands out as a pivotal figure in East Asian history, shaping the trajectory of China for centuries to come.