The Han Dynasty, established in 206 BC, marked a glorious era in Chinese history. It was the first empire to unite China under one rule and experienced unprecedented prosperity, cultural flourishing, and territorial expansion. Under the leadership of emperors like Liu Che (Emperor Wu), the Han Dynasty pushed its boundaries to Central Asia, establishing the Silk Road, a vital trade route connecting East and West. However, internal conflicts, peasant uprisings, and the rise of powerful warlords eventually led to the empire's decline and fall in 220 AD, leaving China divided once again. Despite its eventual demise, the Han Dynasty left an enduring legacy, shaping Chinese culture, politics, and society for centuries to come.
