China vs Western Europe in 15th Century – Flashcards

Rebuilt from the Mongols

Rebuilt from the Bubonic Plague

Political consolidation occurred here

Unitary and centralized government that encompassed almost the whole of its civilization

A decidedly fragmented system of many separate, independent, and competitive states made for a sharply divided Christendom. Many learned to tax citizens more efficiently for administrative structures and armies

Experienced cultural flowering

Europe's culture after the Renaissance was rather more different from its own recent past than Ming dynasty China was from its pre-Mongol glory

Went back to traditions of state buildings.

To establish power and prestige in the world and exert control over foreign trade in the region. They did not seek to conquer territory, spread culture or establish their own settlements

Europeans escalated theirs into massive empire building efforts. Confucian scholars opposed expeditions, but the Catholic Church supported them hoping to spread its influence. China remained at peace, but in Europe, war and competition between states led to huge innovations (100 Years War).