Final answer:
The Song Dynasty was less militarized compared to the Tang Dynasty, focusing more on administration, culture, and economy rather than military conquests and expansion. Despite facing significant military threats, the Song Dynasty is known for its cultural and technological advancements.
Step-by-step explanation:
Compared to the Tang Dynasty, the Song Dynasty was less militarized. While both dynasties had periods of prosperity, the Song government prioritized civilian administration and Confucian principles over military expansion, contrasting with the Tang's more aggressive military stance prior to the An Lushan Rebellion. The Song Dynasty faced recurrent threats and ultimately gave up territory when unable to repel invasions, most notably leading up to its demise by the Mongols in 1279. Hence, the correct direct answer to the comparison is less militarized.
The Song Dynasty made significant advancements in the economy, culture, and technology. These included the introduction of gunpowder as a weapon, growth in commerce bolstered by the issuance of paper money, and a thriving cultural scene marked by increased literacy rates and advancement in sciences and arts. However, in terms of military prowess, the Song Dynasty often resorted to diplomatic measures such as bribes for defense, maintaining a smaller and less aggressive military force compared to the Tang Dynasty, which had a history of military expansionism before facing setbacks post-An Lushan Rebellion.
Despite this, the Song Dynasty's innovative policies and economic growth helped shape the dynasty's legacy as an era of significant development in Chinese history.