Final answer:
The Qin dynasty was important in China's history due to its improvements in infrastructure and support for education. It also successfully repelled the Xiongnu invasion. However, it did not allow Confucianism to flourish.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Qin dynasty, although short-lived, was considered an important part of China's history for several reasons. One reason is that it significantly improved the country's infrastructure. The Qin government constructed an extensive network of roads and canals, which facilitated trade and communication across the empire. Another reason is that the Qin dynasty strongly supported education, instituting a system of public schools and standardized exams to select government officials. This contributed to the development of a highly educated bureaucracy.
Additionally, the Qin dynasty successfully defeated the Xiongnu invasion, a powerful nomadic confederation that posed a threat to China's security. The emperor, Qin Shi Huang, took measures to strengthen the empire's defense mechanisms and eventually pushed back the Xiongnu forces.
However, it is not accurate to say that the Qin dynasty allowed Confucianism to flourish. In fact, the Qin government suppressed Confucian scholars and teachings, considering them a threat to their rule. It was only during the following Han dynasty that Confucianism regained its prominence.
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