History of China/Han Dynasty

The Han Dynasty (漢朝), divided into the earlier Western Han (202 BC - 9 AD) and later Eastern Han Dynasties (25 AD - 220 AD), was one of the most influential time periods in Chinese history. Its impact can be seen in the name of the dominant ethnic group of modern day China, Han Chinese and in the name they call their language, Hanyu (漢語), amongst others. During this period, China reached one of its territorial peaks in ancient times, as well as a golden age of culture and prosperity. This period also solidified Confucianism as the main national policy for centuries to come. The Han Dynasty was headed by the Liu (劉) family.