Interview with Emperor Qin

Emperor Qin, why have you started working on a wall and are gathering men from several of our villages?

I have started work on this wall because I do not believe China is safe from other enemies. If someone was to attack us, what could we do except fight? If another defense was built, such as this wall, our warriors would have a better chance of winning a battle and nothing happening to our homeland. I believe that this wall should be long and tall. Therefore I am naming it the Long Wall. We must recruit all the men from the villages for this idea to work. Many people will die, but it is a sacrifice that must be made to keep millions safe.

We also, have noticed that you have started work on a great tomb for yourself. Surely you are not in a hurry to die.

No, I will die, but not soon. This tomb is being built to show my glory to the Chinese people, and demonstrate how great Emperor Qin really is. I will include life size statues of all my warriors, so when I finally do pass on I will take my grand army with me to the afterlife.

Did you say you will not die soon? How is this possible? Most people only live until they are about 45-50.

That surprises you? Of course I, Emperor Qin, will not die for a long time. My court scientists and doctors have been concocting many potions that they say will make me become immortal. I am looking for the elixir of life. Even though I still do not know if these people are telling the truth, I will keep trying until one day I will finally become immortal.

There have been rumors that someone has tried to assassinate you, is this true?

Yes, the rumors are true. Two men fooled my guards into thinking they would present me a gift. When one of them opened a map a dagger was there and he immediately attacked me. Luckily, I cut his leg with my sword and he yielded. I have ordered them both to be executed. There will be no leniency.

   Is it true that you have started building many new great things for China?

Yes, I have started to build new ways to travel across gaps. These “bridges” are just like roads but are being supported by packed dirt or beams. I also am starting a measurement system as well as a new currency as well. For China to truly be the center of the world it must also advance in various ways.