Use the list describing Shi Huangdi’s rule as the first emperor of China to answer the question.

Reforms of Shi Huangdi:

Promoted Legalism and suppressed other philosophies
Minted a common currency
Ordered the use of a common written language
Standardized weights and measures
Regulated the construction of roads and carts
What was the likely effect of these reforms?

A.
China became more isolated and less interested in economic growth.

B.
The people of China became more engaged in politics and civic society.

C.
Trade and economic growth increased as China became more unified.

D.
Increased freedom of expression in China led to new ideas and religions.

1 answer

C. Trade and economic growth increased as China became more unified.

The reforms implemented by Shi Huangdi aimed to centralize control and create a more cohesive state, which likely facilitated trade and economic activity by standardizing currency, language, and measurements, thereby unifying diverse regions of China.