Song Dynasty | Sung Dynasty
- Dynasty split into Northern (960-1127) and Southern Song (1127-1280)
- Zhao Kuangyin's military coup and skilled leadership
- Innovations in arts and technology: gunpowder, woodblock printing
- Population doubled, cities expanded, and agriculture improved
- Jin rebellion in the 12th century and Song's southern retreat
- Mongolian conquest under Genghis Khan unifying China (1279)
Exploring the Golden Age of Chinese Civilization
Chinese Historical Period (960-1280)
During the period from 960 to 1280 in China, the empire was governed by rulers known as the EMPERORS of the Song. This era is commonly divided into the Northern Song DYNASTY from 960 to 1127 and the Southern Song dynasty from 1127 onward, succeeding the TANG DYNASTY. The leader of this new dynasty was Zhao Kuangyin (Chao K’uang-yin), a military commander during the Tang reign. His ascent to power is often characterized as a military coup. As an emperor, Zhao Kuangyin showcased proficiency not only as a soldier but also as a skilled politician and diplomat. His leadership set the foundation for a lineage of influential emperors who would govern the Song dynasty for three centuries.
Flourishing Arts and Technology (960-1280)
The Song dynasty marked a period of remarkable creativity in arts and technology. Innovations during this time included advancements in coal mining, siege warfare, gunpowder, naval technology, woodblock printing for books, and paper production. Foreign trade with Europe thrived, particularly for spices, silks, and other luxuries. The population experienced a doubling, growing from 60 million. Cities expanded, and agricultural methods underwent enhancements.
Jin Rebellion and Southern Retreat (12th Century)
In the 12th century, a northern clan known as the JIN rebelled against Song rule in Manchuria. This rebellion led to the Song's retreat from North China in 1126, relocating to the southern part of the country. The Jin's coercion forced this geographical shift, and the Southern Song dynasty governed the southern region until 1279.
Mongolian Conquest and Unification (1279)
The culmination of the Southern Song dynasty came in 1279 when the Mongolians, led by Genghis Khan, conquered the Jin and subsequently toppled the Southern Song dynasty. This conquest unified all of China under Mongolian rule, a significant turning point in the region's history (see MONGOLIA).