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Liu Bang (Emperor Gaozu) overthrows the Qin Dynasty.
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He officially takes the throne, marking the beginning of the Western Han period
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Han forces defeat the Chu, solidifying Han control over China.
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His son, Liu Ying, ascends the throne as Emperor Hui.
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Empress Lü rules on behalf of her son after Emperor Hui's death.
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The Lü family is overthrown, restoring power to the Liu family.
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Expansion of the empire and consolidation of power.
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Diplomatic missions to Central Asia open the Silk Road.
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The Han begin a series of conflicts with nomadic tribes.
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His reign marks the height of the Han Dynasty's power.
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A system to recruit officials based on merit.
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He establishes the Xin Dynasty, interrupting the Han rule.
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After Wang Mang's downfall, Liu Xiu becomes Emperor Guangwu
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The dynasty is divided into Western and Eastern periods.
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The religion begins to spread during the Eastern Han
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Cai Lun develops a method for making paper from tree bark and hemp.
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Emphasis on Confucian ideals in governance.
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A major peasant uprising against the Han government.
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The rebellion is suppressed, but it weakens the Han authority.
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The dynasty officially ends, leading to the Three Kingdoms period.