-
206 BCE
The Establishment of the Han Dynasty
Liu Bang (Emperor Gaozu) overthrows the Qin Dynasty. -
202 BCE
Liu Bang Becomes Emperor Gaozu
He officially takes the throne, marking the beginning of the Western Han period -
200 BCE
Battle of Gaixia
Han forces defeat the Chu, solidifying Han control over China. -
195 BCE
Death of Emperor Gaozu
His son, Liu Ying, ascends the throne as Emperor Hui. -
188 BCE
Regency of Empress Dowager Lü Clan
Empress Lü rules on behalf of her son after Emperor Hui's death. -
180 BCE
Fall of the Lü Clan
The Lü family is overthrown, restoring power to the Liu family. -
Period: 141 BCE to 187 BCE
Reign of Emperor Wu
Expansion of the empire and consolidation of power. -
139 BCE
Zhang Qian's Expedition
Diplomatic missions to Central Asia open the Silk Road. -
119 BCE
First Military Campaigns Against the Xiongnu
The Han begin a series of conflicts with nomadic tribes. -
87 BCE
Death of Emperor Wu
His reign marks the height of the Han Dynasty's power. -
74 BCE
Establishment of the Imperial Examination
A system to recruit officials based on merit. -
9
Wang Mang Usurps the Throne
He establishes the Xin Dynasty, interrupting the Han rule. -
23
Restoration of the Han Dynasty
After Wang Mang's downfall, Liu Xiu becomes Emperor Guangwu -
25
Beginning of the Eastern Han
The dynasty is divided into Western and Eastern periods. -
57
Introduction of Buddhism to China
The religion begins to spread during the Eastern Han -
105
The Invention of Paper
Cai Lun develops a method for making paper from tree bark and hemp. -
132
Confucianism Becomes the State Philosophy
Emphasis on Confucian ideals in governance. -
166
Yellow Turban rebellion
A major peasant uprising against the Han government. -
184
The End of the Yellow Turban Rebellion
The rebellion is suppressed, but it weakens the Han authority. -
220
The Fall of The Han Dynasty
The dynasty officially ends, leading to the Three Kingdoms period.