What was the main reason behind Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi's obsession with the Terracotta Army

Emperor Qin Shi Huangdi's obsession with the Terracotta Army was primarily rooted in his desire for immortality and his beliefs in the afterlife. As the first emperor of unified China, he sought to secure his power and ensure his legacy beyond death. The Terracotta Army, consisting of thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots, was buried with him in his massive mausoleum to protect him in the afterlife and to serve as a symbol of his authority and military strength.

Additionally, Qin Shi Huangdi aimed to demonstrate his power and the grandeur of his empire through this monumental undertaking. He believed that such elaborate preparations for the afterlife would ensure his continued dominance even after death. This reflects the broader cultural and spiritual beliefs of the time, where the afterlife was viewed as an extension of life on earth, necessitating elaborate burial practices and provisions.