Before China was united, it was made up of separate feudal states. The feudal system was introduced by the Zhou dynasty. It typically comprises of two parties called a lord and a vassal. The lord was saddled with the responsibility of providing a fief to his vassal so as to provide the lord with protection and get him justice in the court of law.
China became united under the Qin dynasty or empire.
Additionally, in ancient times, the Mongol empire is one which was typically known for linking Asia and Europe during the era of frequent trade between the east and the west. The Mongols encouraged trading with foreigners and as such increased the level of trades by being hospitable, tolerant and providing security for the foreign traders along the silk road.
