A Study On The Weapons Of The West Xia Dynasty

This thesis aims to make a profound and comprehensive analysis of the Weapons of the West Xia Dynasty in order to have a more accurate understanding of them. The research includes their categories, materials, specifications and methods of anufacturing and quality examination, etc. The study is based on literatures both in Tangut and in ancient Chinese.We can draw the following conclusions:First, cold steel dominated the weapons of that time, with little firearms, which thrived only in the Song Dynasty. Fire tribulus terrestris-like weapons were developed from the existing weapons of the Song Dynasty, while Xia swords were their own unique invention. West Xia were the most powerful state at that time due to its possession of deadly weaponry like strong bows, Xiaren swords, tornado guns and advanced armors. The strong bows made by West Xia people passed later to the Song Dynasty and then to the Yuan and Ming Dynasties, and were widely used in battles.Second, the department of steel and wood was in charge of the weaponry. All the weapons were made by specialized craftsman. Meanwhile, weaponry smuggling was allowed then, but private weaponry was strictly monitored, which showcased harsh hierarchy.Third, the development of unique weaponry of West Xia was no accident, but was closely related to the social circumstances. The comprehensive social factors fostered the thriving of its weaponry. Cultural geography served as a fundamental amongst all the factors. And the burgeoning of economy in that period also greatly added to this thriving.Forth, the emerging and maturity of weaponry of West Xia left a significant footprint in the weapon history of China. Armed with state-of-art weapons, its fighting strength was unparalleled. Later, the weapons introduced to mainland and had a profound influence on mainland states. And the exchange of weaponry between West Xia and mainland states promoted their communication in economy and culture. This was of great importance to the understanding and integration of different nations, and to the development of the west part of China as well. Thus it can de concluded that the unique weapons of the West Xia were greatly advanced, featuring cutting-edge bows, guns and long-rang weapons. The weaponry was not only a refinement of existing ones but the invention of numerous powerful weapons. To sum up, the West xia boasted a weaponry that was far more advanced than that of the Song, Liao and Jin Dynasties.