The Western Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 9 CE) was a significant period in Chinese history, following the end of the Qin Dynasty. It marked the consolidation of imperial power and the expansion of territory. The dynasty is known for its advancements in culture, technology, and trade, particularly through the establishment of the Silk Road, which facilitated commerce between China and the West. During the Western Han, the government implemented Confucian principles, promoting education and civil service. The dynasty's notable emperors, such as Emperor Wu, expanded the empire and strengthened its economy. The period ended with a brief interruption by the Xin Dynasty before the Eastern Han began.