How far apart were the Roman and Chinese empires?
The 500-‐year Roman Empire was relatively short-‐lived compared to the 3,000 years of Chinese dynastic history. However, the period from the first century CE to the middle of the fifth century was critical in creating long-‐lasting connections between East and West that continue to this day.
Did the Chinese ever meet the Romans?
Chinese trade with the Roman Empire, confirmed by the Roman desire for silk, started in the 1st century BC. There were few direct trade contacts between Romans and Han Chinese, as the rival Parthians and Kushans were each protecting their lucrative role as trade intermediaries.
What did the Chinese empire know about the Roman Empire?
While Chinese records on Rome were not entirely accurate, they did get some facts correct. Gan wrote how Roman kings were appointed by their people based on merit, and described the Romans as tall and honest, praising their mineral wealth.
What aspects of the early Chinese empire were different from those of the Roman Empire?
Rome had a large “inland” sea (Mediterranean) for ease of trade and travel. Well constructed roads made land travel and communication possible. China was a land based empire. River travel, canals, roads had to be built and maintained for transportation and communication.
Where were the Chinese and Roman empires located?
In the time of Augustus in Rome and the Han dynasty in China, the Roman and Chinese empires each held about 60 million people, but in Rome only a few of these millions were in Italy. In China virtually all were in “inner China,” 90 percent of them in the North China Plain.
How were the Roman and Chinese empires different?
Culturally, they were also different, in that the Han Dynasty was based on Confucian philosophy, while the Romans worshipped many gods and believed in strict military discipline. The Romans were more aggressive than the Chinese, who were often just as content to rely on diplomacy and foreign trade.
How was the Chinese empire different from the Roman Empire?
Each empire divided its land into separate parts, and each had policies that helped them maintain military control. Culturally, they were also different, in that the Han Dynasty was based on Confucian philosophy, while the Romans worshipped many gods and believed in strict military discipline.