China S First Emperor And His Terracotta Warriors

Unifier or destroyer, law-maker or tyrant? China's First Emperor (258-210 BC) has been the subject of debate for over 2,000 years. He gave us the name by which China is known in the West and, by his unification or elimination of six states, he created imperial China. He stressed the rule of law but suppressed all opposition, burning books and burying scholars alive. His military achievements are reflected in the astonishing terracotta soldiers—a veritable buried army—that surround his tomb, and his Great Wall still fascinates the world. Despite his achievements, however, the First Emperor has been vilified since his death. China's First Emperor and His Terracotta Warriors describes his life and times and reflects the historical arguments over the real founder of China and one of the most important men in Chinese history.

"With contributions from leading scholars, this fully illustrated catalogue represents a panoramic view of Qin artistic, military, and administrative achievements under the powerful First Emperor, who unified China in 221 BCE. In addition, it examines the period of Chinese history preceding the emperor's reign and the role of earlier Qin rulers in the evolution of a small state into a superpower."--Provided by publisher.

The rise of Qin and the military conquest of the warring states -- The First Emperor and the Qin empire -- Imperial tours and mountain inscriptions -- The First Emperor's tomb: the afterlife universe -- A two-thousand-year-old underground empire.

The Terracotta Army is one of the greatest, and most famous, archaeological discoveries of all time. 6,000 life-size figures of warriors and horses were interred in the Mausoleum of the First Emperor of China - each is individually carved, and they are thought to represent real members of the emperor's army. This is the remarkable story of their creation, the man who ordered them made, their rediscovery and their continuing legacy as a pre-eminent symbol of Chinese greatness. The First Emperor, Qin Shi Huang, was king of the Chinese state of Qin and the first man to unite China into a single empire. He built the first Great Wall and brought a single written script to the whole country. He was an inspired and ruthless ruler, but one also beset by paranoia and a desire for immortality. He is still considered the founding father of the modern state of China. On his death in 210 BC he was buried in a giant mausoleum near modern-day Xi'an. Legends of the treasures contained therein still tantalize the imagination today. In 1974 local farmers digging a well for water broke through into the burial mound and found the first of the Terracotta warriors. Further excavations have revealed the full splendour of the buried army. But the majority of the mausoleum is yet to be opened, including the burial chamber itself - myth tells us that amongst the treasures yet to be uncovered is a vast map of the First Emperor's kingdom with rivers marked with channels of flowing mercury. The story of the First Emperor and the Terracotta Army is a fascinating one, not least for the discoveries yet to be made.

"This catalog accompanies the exhibition Terracotta Army: Legacy of the First Emperor of China, organized by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts"--

Embark on a captivating journey through the corridors of ancient China with "The Terracotta Army Uncovered: Discovering the Hidden Past of China's First Emperor and His Terracotta Warriors." This immersive exploration unravels the enigmatic tale of the renowned Terracotta Army, a silent army of clay warriors guarding the afterlife legacy of China's First Emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Dive into the compelling narrative, beginning with the rise to power of the visionary First Emperor and the unification of China, setting the stage for an extraordinary imperial vision that transcended the boundaries of life. The story unfolds as we delve into the emperor's quest for immortality, culminating in the creation of the Terracotta Army-a testament to ancient China's unparalleled artistic, technological, and military achievements. As the archaeological discoveries come to light, the book takes you through the origins of these life-sized clay soldiers, their meticulous construction, and the architectural marvel of the mausoleum complex. From the chance discovery of the army to the challenges of excavation and preservation, each chapter unveils a new layer of the hidden past, inviting readers into the heart of ancient Chinese culture. The narrative unfolds seamlessly, offering a rich tapestry of historical context, archaeological revelations, and the ongoing research that continues to unveil the mysteries surrounding the emperor's tomb. Explore the significance of each warrior, the artistic brilliance, and the technological innovations that shaped this awe-inspiring creation. "The Terracotta Army Uncovered" not only delves into the historical and cultural dimensions but also navigates the controversies and theories that shroud these silent guardians. Unanswered questions and interpretive frontiers come to life, adding layers of intrigue to an already fascinating narrative. This book is more than a historical account; it's a journey through time, inviting readers to witness the legacy of the First Emperor and his warriors. The global impact of the Terracotta Army resonates beyond the pages, captivating imaginations and fostering a deeper understanding of our shared human history. Are you ready to uncover the hidden past, walk among the clay soldiers, and explore the enduring legacy of ancient China's First Emperor? Join us on this enthralling expedition with "The Terracotta Army Uncovered." Your ticket to history awaits.