Williams, Kirstina D. History 126 August 27, 2015 Cultural, social, and political consequences of the unification of China. China was unified in 221 B.C.E. for the first time in many centuries after decades of constant warfare (also called the “Warring States Period”) for the first time in centuries under the leadership of Qin (McKay, 178). The king of Qin did not feel that the title of king was grand enough and created the title “Emperor” (huangdi) and he called himself the First Emperor (Shihuangdi) in hopes of many successors (McKay, 178-179). The Qin state soon fell apart and led to the beginning of the Han Dynasty, which managed to take power and keep China unified until 220 C.E. The unification of China affected many parts of politics, culture, and social life during the Qin and Han Dynasties. After the Qin Dynasty managed to unite all of China, the First Emperor and his minister began “a sweeping program of centralization that touched the lives of nearly everyone in China” (McKay 179). Nobles were ordered to move from their homes to the capital to ensure that their influence over their communities was limited, and the possession of arms was outlawed to make it difficult for people to rebel against the new powers. Officials were placed in territories under orders to manage them and enforce new regulations, which were strict, and penalties were carried out for inadequate performance. Thousands of miles of roads were built, helping to facilitate trade throughout the region. A census was also taken so the bureaucracy would be able to plan for various things like public works and tax revenues. The First Emperor also