The Song Dynasty reunited China after the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms. The dynasty can be divided into two distinct periods, namely the Northern Song and the Southern Song. Emperor Taizu of Song founded the dynasty in 960. During the Northern Song, the capital was In Bianjing (Kaifeng, 2022). The capital moved to Lin'an (Hangzhou, 2022). The Song lost control of the northern half to the Jin dynasty led by Jurchen.

Technology, science, mathematics, engineering, and philosophy flourished during the Song era. They were the first to issue banknotes and the first Chinese government to establish a permanent navy. The dynasty possessed the first recorded chemical formula of gunpowder to make rockets, bombs, and fire lances. The Song Dynasty saw the first discernment of true north using a compass.

The population doubled during the 10th and 11th centuries. Extensive rice cultivation, precocious rice and widespread food surpluses made this possible. This growth led to withdrawal of central government and direct involvement in the economy. The lesser nobility took a greater role in local government and affairs.

Social life also grew. Cities had lively nightlife areas. Literature and knowledge spread through woodblock printing and the invention of the movable type printing.