Emperor Qin Shi Huang

Emperor Qin Shi Huang was China's first emperor, ruling from 221 BCE to 210 BCE. He unified various warring states into a single empire, standardized currencies, weights, and writing systems, and initiated major projects like the construction of the early Great Wall. Known for his centralizing reforms and ambitious, sometimes harsh policies, he also sought immortality, building elaborate tombs guarded by the famous Terracotta Army. His rule marked the beginning of imperial China, laying foundations that influenced Chinese government, culture, and infrastructure for centuries.