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Terracotta Army China — Reading Comprehension

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This passage examines the remarkable discovery of China’s Terracotta Army, one of the world’s most famous archaeological finds. Students learn about the life of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of a unified China, and the purpose and construction of the vast underground clay army that was meant to guard him in the afterlife. The text highlights primary archaeological evidence, such as the thousands of life-sized soldiers and artifacts found near Xi’an, and explores the significance of this discovery for understanding ancient Chinese beliefs, social hierarchy, and craftsmanship. This passage is aligned with CA HSS 6.6 and TEKS 113.18, offering a rigorous, standards-based approach to world history. Activities include a read aloud, Spanish translation, comprehension questions, writing prompts, graphic organizers, and a timeline, making it ideal for classroom use or independent study.

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Terracotta Army China, Epcot.JPG
Source: Wikimedia Commons - Eliedion

The Terracotta Army is one of the most extraordinary archaeological discoveries in the world. In 1974, farmers digging a well near Xi’an, China, uncovered life-sized clay soldiers buried underground. These clay figures were created to guard the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, who unified China in 221 BCE.

Qin Shi Huang was the founder of the Qin dynasty and ruled from 221 to 210 BCE. He became famous for unifying different states, building the first version of the Great Wall, and establishing a standardized system of writing and currency. Historians believe that the emperor was obsessed with immortality. Hoping to rule even after death, he ordered the construction of a massive underground mausoleum—a grand tomb complex filled with thousands of clay soldiers, horses, and chariots.

The Terracotta Army is made up of more than 8,000 soldiers, 670 horses, and 130 chariots, all arranged in battle formation. Each clay soldier is unique, with different facial expressions, hairstyles, and armor, reflecting the social hierarchy and military ranks of Qin society. Archaeologists have also found bronze weapons, such as swords and crossbows, that were placed with the army to make it ready for combat. The site is divided into several pits, with Pit 1 being the largest and most impressive. Historical records, such as those by the ancient historian Sima Qian, support the evidence found at the site, but there are still mysteries about how the army was made and what lies within the emperor’s unopened tomb chamber.

The construction of the Terracotta Army required thousands of workers and advanced craftsmanship. Artisans used local clay and fired the figures in kilns, then assembled them in the vast underground chambers. The project took nearly 40 years and likely involved forced labor. The discovery of the army has helped historians understand ancient Chinese beliefs about the afterlife, the power of the emperor, and the importance of military strength for the Qin dynasty. It also shows continuity in Chinese funerary practices and the value placed on protecting rulers in death as in life.

The Terracotta Army remains a symbol of China’s rich cultural heritage and continues to attract researchers and visitors worldwide. It offers insight into the technological skills, social organization, and religious beliefs of ancient China. The preservation and study of this site connect us to broader themes of world history, such as the rise of empires, the use of art for political purposes, and the role of archaeology in uncovering the past.

Interesting Fact: Some of the clay soldiers still have traces of bright paint, showing that the army was once colorfully decorated.

Who was the first emperor of China?

Qin Shi HuangSima QianHan WudiSun Tzu

When was the Terracotta Army discovered?

1974210 BCE221 BCE1492

Where is the Terracotta Army located?

Near Xi’anBeijingShanghaiChengdu

Why did Qin Shi Huang build the Terracotta Army?

To protect his tombTo invade other landsTo store foodTo trade with neighbors

What do unique clay soldiers show?

Social hierarchyTrade routesReligionClimate

What is one reason the Terracotta Army is important?

It helps us learn about ancient ChinaIt is made of goldIt was built by RomansIt is the oldest tomb in the world