The Song Dynasty ruled China from 1200-1450 CE. Geographically, China contained deserts, mountains, plains, and major rivers suitable for agriculture. Politically, the Song Dynasty established a merit-based civil service and large bureaucracy but faced military threats from northern tribes. Technologically, the Song saw improvements in agriculture, proto-industrialization, gunpowder, printing, navigation, and iron production. Culturally, Confucianism, Daoism, and Buddhism were dominant. Economically, the Song benefited from urbanization, trade along the Silk Road, and public works projects.