宋朝始於960年，一直延續到1279年。這一時期，中國經濟大幅增長，成爲世界上最先進的經濟體，科學、技術、哲學和數學蓬勃發展。宋代中國是世界歷史上首先發行紙幣的國家。宋朝還最早使用火藥併發明瞭活字印刷。人口增長迅速，越來越多的人住進城市，那裏有熱鬧的娛樂場所。社會生活多種多樣。人們聚集在一起觀看和交易珍貴藝術品。宋朝的政府體質在當時也是先進的。政府官員均通過競爭性考試選拔任用。The Song dynasty began from 960 and ended in 1279. During the period, China had witnessed huge growth in the economy, making it the most advanced economy in the world. Science and technology, philosophy and mathematics also flourished at that time. In the Song dynasty, China was the first country in the world to issue paper money, use gunpowder and invent movable-type printing. With rapidly increasing population, more and more people moved into the city, in which entertainment venues were very busy. People could enjoy various social life, getting together to appreciate and trade precious artworks. The Song dynasty also enjoyed an advanced government system in the world. All of the government officials were selected and appointed through the competitive examination.
