Qin Dynasty (Qin Shihuang)

The Qin Dynasty, which lasted from 221 to 206 BCE, was China's first imperial dynasty, founded by Qin Shi Huang, who is often regarded as the country's first emperor. He unified China by conquering warring states and established a centralized government. Qin Shi Huang is known for major reforms, such as standardizing weights, measures, and writing, as well as beginning construction on the Great Wall of China. His reign was marked by both innovations and harsh rule, including heavy taxation and forced labor. The dynasty fell shortly after his death, but it laid the foundation for future Chinese empires.