Abstract:

From the Qin and Han to the Sui and Tang dynasties the vast, unified empire system in the history of China went through its first complete circle from establishment, consolidation, collapse to reconstruction. In the circle there were so many similarities between the Han and the Tang that these two dynasties have usually been regarded together as the Han-Tang. Actually, there existed a lot of distinct differences between these two great dynasties apart from their inherent continuations. Through a study of those similarities and differences, we may discover further more characteristics and laws in the development of ancient history of China.

Key words: the Han Dynasty, the Tang Dynasty, difference and similarity, dynastic cycle