Han Wudi

    Han Wudi ruled for 54 years and is one of the longest ruling ruler of all time in ancient history. He was the most powerful Emperor of the Han Dynasty and he strengthened his own power by putting an end to the power of the nobles.

    He was a great administrator and he was the one who introduced the imperial examination system as he wanted the most capable brains to work in the government. The examinations were mainly based on Confucianism.

    He decided to attacked the Xiongnu and bring them under his control. He got allies to help him and drove the Xiongnu further north into the desert. Beside fighting the Xiongnu, he greatly expanded his empire and his empire extended all the way to parts of countries like present-day Vietnam and North Korea. He also discovered the possibility of trade with other countries and opened the Silk Road. This helped ensure economic prosperity.