Song 宋 dynasty (960 - 1126/1279 AD)

The final collapse of the Tang 唐 dynasty in 906 AD was followed by the fragmentation of the empire. In the north, the so-called "Five dynasties" ruled the area from 906-960 AD, while the south was determined by the "Ten Kingdoms".

The developments of the transition period were characterized by the fact that the "aristocracy" was replaced by the civil servants. The mercenary army was replaced and the trade route across the sea was now the determining factor. Maritime trade was important because the Silk Road (trade route across the mainland) was closed at that time.

The Song dynasty was established in 960 AD by its first emperor, Emperor Taizu 太祖. The dynasty lasted until 1279 AD. By this means, it should be taken into account that the dynasty was divided into a "Northern" and a "Southern" dynasty, as mentioned above. The "Northern" dynasty existed from 960-1126 AD. It was followed by the "Southern" Song dynasty from 1126-1279 AD.

From a cultural, economic and technical point of view, China experienced a renaissance in its development during the Song dynasty. Among other things, this led to the empire's population increase by the end of the Song dynasty.

The administration of the Song Dynasty:

The second emperor of the Song dynasty, Emperor Taizong 太宗, established the empire as an official state. The highest level of administration was the State Council, headed by the emperor. The State Council was followed by the Central Administration. The  Central Administration was responsible for the economy and finances of the empire, the army, and the secretariat.

The technique of the Song:

In terms of technology development, the Song dynasty focused on domestic transport. In addition, during the Song dynasty, handicrafts expanded and the importance of textile plants gained attention. The development of gunpowder also brought about an advance in terms of military technology.

Different classes emerged in society. The impoverishment of the rural population gave rise to a social class of land pensioners on the one hand, while on the other hand a class of farm workers and tenants existed. The upswing in the economy and trade created new forms of government revenue, formed by trade tax, monopolies, compulsory labor, poll tax and property tax.

During the Song dynasty calligraphy, painting, literature flourished, especially because of the printing press development.