Final answer:
The Sage Mother Hall at Jinci was built during the Song Dynasty, which was known for cultural advancements and technological inventions such as gunpowder and the compass. Sima Qian is considered the Father of History by the Chinese, and the Song Dynasty also upheld a meritocratic system of governance through examinations for state administrators. so, option C is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Sage Mother Hall at Jinci was built during the Song Dynasty. The Song Dynasty, ruling from 960-1279, was noted for economic growth and cultural development. They were also known for significant technological advancements including gunpowder and the compass. Their emphasis on Confucian ideals established a strong governmental system, although the Song Dynasty governed over less territory compared to some other dynasties like Han and Tang.
The Father of History, as viewed by the Chinese, is Sima Qian, who authored the 'Shiji' or 'Records of the Grand Historian'. During the Song Dynasty, examinations for entering into state service as an administrator were firmly established, contributing to the meritocratic system that characterized Chinese governance for many centuries.