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Shi Huangdi: First Emperor of China — Reading Comprehension

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This rigorous history reading passage explores the remarkable reign of Shi Huangdi, the first emperor of China, and his role in uniting the Chinese states into a single empire. Students will learn about the Qin Dynasty’s reforms, construction of the Great Wall, and the emperor’s use of strict laws and ambitious building projects. The passage includes primary source evidence, cause-and-effect analysis, and examines both the achievements and controversies of Shi Huangdi’s rule. Activities include reading comprehension, writing, graphic organizers, and a timeline. The content aligns with CA HSS 6.6.3 and CCSS RI.6.3 standards and is supported by read aloud audio and a Spanish translation for multilingual accessibility. This lesson provides a deep look at leadership, state-building, and the impact of geography and social hierarchy on ancient civilizations.

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"Qin Shi Huang" / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

Shi Huangdi founded the Qin Dynasty and became the first emperor to unite China in 221 BCE. His given name was Ying Zheng, and as king of Qin, he conquered rival states during a period of constant warfare known as the Warring States Period. By defeating the other kingdoms, Shi Huangdi ended centuries of conflict and brought the regions along the Yellow and Yangtze Rivers under his rule. His rise marks one of the most influential turning points in ancient Chinese history.

Shi Huangdi’s government was highly centralized. He replaced the old feudal system, where local lords held power, with a system where officials were appointed by the emperor. This centralization allowed him to create a uniform set of laws, weights and measures, and even standardized written characters. Archaeological evidence, such as bronze weights and Qin coins, shows how daily life became more organized under his rule. The emperor’s policies helped connect people from different regions, creating a shared Chinese identity.

One of Shi Huangdi’s most famous achievements was the construction of the Great Wall of China. He ordered the linking of earlier walls built by northern states to protect against invasions from the Xiongnu and other nomadic groups. Workers, including soldiers, peasants, and prisoners, labored for years under harsh conditions. Ancient historian Sima Qian wrote about the suffering of those who built the wall, highlighting the human cost of the emperor’s ambitions. The wall became a symbol of both protection and the emperor’s absolute power.

Shi Huangdi also left a lasting legacy through his enormous tomb, guarded by the famous Terracotta Army. Discovered in 1974 near the city of Xi’an, these thousands of life-sized clay soldiers and horses reflect advanced craftsmanship and the emperor’s desire for immortality. The tomb’s vastness demonstrates the resources and organization of the Qin state. However, Shi Huangdi’s rule was also harsh. He enforced strict legalist laws, burned books that opposed his ideas, and punished those who resisted his authority.

The reign of Shi Huangdi changed China forever. His reforms laid the foundation for later dynasties, and his unification of China influenced its culture, language, and government for centuries. While some historians criticize his cruelty, others recognize the stability and order he brought. Shi Huangdi’s story shows how geography, ambition, and leadership can shape civilizations.

Interesting Fact: Shi Huangdi survived several assassination attempts, leading him to search for magical elixirs of immortality and build secret tunnels beneath his palace.

Who was the first emperor of China?

Shi HuangdiConfuciusHan WudiSima Qian

What was the main purpose of the Great Wall?

To protect China from invasionsTo store grainTo mark property linesTo help trade

Which dynasty did Shi Huangdi found?

QinHanZhouTang

How did Shi Huangdi standardize China?

By creating uniform lawsBy building shipsBy inventing silkBy planting rice

What was a result of centralization?

More organized daily lifeMore local lordsLess tradeSmaller armies

Why did workers suffer building the Great Wall?

Harsh conditionsCold weather onlyNo paymentNo food