The Han Dynasty was the second great empire of China, founded by Liu Bang (Emperor Gaozu) after defeating Xiang Yu. It lasted for over 400 years and is considered a golden age in Chinese history. During this time, paper was invented, the Silk Road was opened for trade, and Confucianism became the official state philosophy. It was so influential that even today, the majority ethnic group in China calls themselves the 'Han' people.