how long did the han dinasty rule china?

Answer 1

The reign of the Han Dynasty, lasting over 400 years, is commonly considered within China to be one of the greatest periods in the history of China.

Answer 2

The Han Dynasty begins in 206 B.C. when Liu Bang became the emperor. Its divided into two periods. The Former Han lasted to A.D. 8 with its capital at Chang'an (now Xian). The Later Han dynasty lasted from A.D. 25 to A.D.220 and its capital was at Luoyang. Sometimes the two periods are called the Western Han and the Eastern Han dynasties. From A.D. 8 to A.D.23 China was ruled by Wang Nang, who set up the short-lived Xin dynasty. But after it fell the Han soon regained control. Under the Han, China had a strong central government. They used a civil service examination to select officials. This examination stressed knowledge of the teachings of Confucius. Confucian scholars held important government positions. China expanded west into Central Asia, and conquered northern Korea and northern Viet Nam. Overland trade routes developed, especially the famous "Silk Road". The Han dynasty collapsed because of rivalries among powerful families, scholars, advisers and generals.