Final answer:
Qin Shi Huang united China by implementing a system of merit-based appointments for officials and delegates, introducing new legal codes, standardized weights and measures, and implementing incentives for able administrators.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, united the country through various measures. One of the main strategies he used was to appoint officials and delegates based on merit rather than relying on hereditary nobles. This created new opportunities for social advancement based on talent and meritocracy. Additionally, Qin Shi Huang introduced new legal codes, standardized weights and measures, and implemented a system of incentives to reward able administrators.