Terracotta Warriors: Cultural Warrior

Tony Yin Tak Chu highlights the cultural advances introduced by the First Emperor, Qin Shi Huangdi: harmonized writings, standardized weights and measurements and an established defence system against the nomadic invasions (The Great Wall). A unified China opened the way for cultural development and transformation.

Qin Shi Huangdi was influenced by Li Si, a man who came from humble circumstances in the kingdom of Chu, to the south.  Li Si studied under a Confucian philosopher before moving to Qin in 247 BC.  The Prime Minister at that time, Lu Buwei invited Li Si to be his guest.  This honour gave Li Si the opportunity to meet and impress Qin Shi Huangdi with his views on how to unify China.

On Li Si’s recommendation, Qin Shi Huangdi initiated the policy of the “carrot” to go along with the “stick” of legalism.  This policy allowed the state to mobilize its citizens by convincing them that they were working for the greater good.  Li Si served under Qin Shi Huangdi and his son, Qin Er Shi (Ershi Huangdi).  History remembers Li Si as an eminent Legalist and a distinguished calligrapher.

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Map Position: #16 – 1730 Burrard Street

Cultural Warrior

Artist: Tony Yin Tak Chu

Published by Rebecca Budd

Blogger, Visual Storyteller, Podcaster, Traveler and Life-long Learner

2 thoughts on “Terracotta Warriors: Cultural Warrior

    1. When I first started to chase down “my” warriors, I appreciated the artistic endeavour and the historical perspective they represented. They also are raising funds for a most excellent cause. I must confess, however, that as time went by they became something much more to me. They embodied the spirit of those warriors that lived so long in the past. They reminded me that loyalty and justice must be preserved – that they still remain on guard.

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