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Our possessions are often very important to us, so much so that we even try to take them with us when we die. One of the most spectacular tombs still evident today is found in China. Records of the burial site of China’s first emperor, named Chinshi Huangdi (ruled 221-207 B.C.), state that the man himself was buried in a large chamber full of “precious stones” and “fine vessels,” great treasure. Jewels that represent the sun, moon, and starts are said to line the ceiling of this chamber; while the floor is recorded to contain “rivers of mercury” that represent the earth. More than that, the man is guarded by 8,099 clay soldiers, each one different from the rest in both appearance and height. The tallest are the generals, who tower at 6 ft., 6 inches. There are also horses and other figures besides the soldiers. It’s said that their purpose was to help him rule another empire in the afterlife, and for protection. His tomb, which is supposed to be a type of palace, is estimated to have required 700,000 workers around 36 years to complete. In it are offices, halls, and a wall with gated entrances.

Other historical accounts from China and Egypt tell us that even slaves have been killed and buried with their masters (some have been buried alive). In China, one ruler (Duke Wu) was buried with over 60 slaves, while another (later, Duke Mu) was buried with 177 slaves.

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