Overview

In 1974, while digging a well, Chinese peasant Yang Zhifa uncovered bronze projectile points and pottery shards. He had no idea that he had found one of the largest and most spectacular archaeological sites in the world. This treasure, known as the Tomb of Qin Shi Huang, has given researchers insight into the historical, political, philosophical, and artistic life of people in what is now known as China. It has also given us an opportunity to appreciate the achievements and legacy of Chinese culture.

Life-size terra-cotta soldiers in tomb. (WolfgangKaehler/Corbis. Reproduced by permission.)

Background

In 1974, a terra-cotta clay army of some 7,000 life-sized figures, equipped with actual chariots and bronze weapons, was discovered near the tomb of the first Emperor of Qin. Created nearly 2,000 years ago to accompany the dead emperor on...