Shihuangdi, the first emperor of a unified China during the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE), attempted to defend his empire from attacks by nomadic tribes, particularly the Xiongnu, through several strategies:
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Construction of the Great Wall: One of Shihuangdi's most significant projects was the expansion and fortification of the Great Wall of China. The construction aimed to create a physical barrier to deter invasions and raids from nomadic groups to the north.
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Military Campaigns: Shihuangdi organized military campaigns against the nomadic tribes to push them back from the borders. He aimed to secure and consolidate his empire's territories through both defensive and offensive military strategies.
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Colonization and Settlement: The emperor encouraged Han Chinese farmers to settle in border regions, thus creating a stronger Han presence. This helped to cultivate the land and provide a buffer against nomadic incursions.
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Diplomatic Actions: Shihuangdi may have also engaged in diplomacy, using alliances, intermarriages, or tributes to manage relations with some nomadic tribes.
Overall, Shihuangdi's defensive strategies combined military preparedness, bureaucratic control, and infrastructure development, reflecting the complexity of managing the vast Qin Empire amidst external threats.