Western Han (or Former Han) (206 BC- 8 AD) The Western Han period can be divided into the time of consolidation (Emperors Han Gaozu, Wendi, Jingdi), the zenith with the expansion into Inner Asia and the centralization of power (Emperor Han Wudi), and the time of replacement of the imperial power by the mighty consort clan of the Wang (emperors Yuandi, Chengdi). The Western Han was a powerful and prosperous period in the Han Dynasty, Emperors Wendi, Jingdi and Wudi efficiently developed of its politics, economy and culture. The Western Han retained much of the Qin systems, but adopted a ruling policy different from the tyranny of the Qin. Han rulers modified harsh laws, carried out the policy of rehabilitation and reduced taxes to establish a solid, material foundation for the Golden Age under the reign of Emperor Wudi (sixth emperor of the Han Dynasty). During this period, the legal system became more civilized and excruciations were also gradually abolished. To strengthen his power, Emperor Wudi accepted Dong Zhongshu's proposal to reject other schools of thoughts, while only respecting Confucianism. Unlike the cruel First Emperor of Qin, Emperor Wudi combined the study of Confucianism with other schools. Confucian classics gradually gained dominance status and became the main reading materials for scholars. By doing so, Emperor Wudi unified the empire both politically and philosophically. |