The Tang Dynasty

The Tang Dynasty ruled China from the year 618 to 907. It is often called a golden age of China. During this time, China was wealthy, powerful, and full of great art. The capital city, Chang'an, was one of the biggest cities in the world. People from many lands came there to trade and learn.

Poetry and Art

The Tang Dynasty was a wonderful time for poetry. Famous poets like Li Bai and Du Fu wrote beautiful poems that are still loved today. Artists painted pictures and made statues from clay. Music and dance were also important. People enjoyed watching shows and listening to stories.

The Silk Road

The Silk Road was a set of trade routes that connected China with lands far to the west. Tang China sent silk, tea, and porcelain along these routes. In return, they got horses, spices, and new ideas. Caravans of camels carried goods across deserts and mountains. The Silk Road helped China share its culture with the world.

Fun Facts

• The Tang Dynasty invented printing with carved wooden blocks.
• Empress Wu Zetian of the Tang was the only female emperor in Chinese history.
• Tang artists made famous three-colored ceramic horses and camels.

Did You Know?

The Chinese writing for 'Tang' is still used today to mean 'Chinese,' and Chinatowns around the world are sometimes called 'Tang People Streets.'