Ace the California Teacher Credential Test 2025 – Elevate Your Classroom Game!

The growth of cities during the Sung Dynasty can be largely attributed to the flourishing of foreign trade. This period, particularly from the 10th to the 13th centuries, saw significant advancements in maritime activities and trade routes. The development of a strong commercial economy facilitated the exchange of goods not only within China but also with neighboring regions and beyond. River transportation and advances in shipbuilding increased the volume and variety of goods traded, enhancing urban centers' importance as markets and hubs of commerce.

This increase in trade led to a surge in population as cities became more attractive due to economic opportunities. Merchants and craftsmen flocked to urban areas, boosting economic activities, and creating a vibrant urban culture. The prosperity from trade fostered innovation in various sectors, including technology, which further supported urban growth.

In contrast, while military expansions and government taxation played roles in sustaining the dynasty, they did not have the same direct and profound impact on the urban growth compared to the emphasis on foreign trade and commerce. Population control measures would typically aim to manage growth rather than encourage it, making them less relevant in the context of urban expansion during this dynamic period in Chinese history.