The dynasty responsible for unifying China during the third century was the Qin Dynasty. Founded by Qin Shi Huang in 221 BCE, it marked the first time China was unified under a centralized imperial government. The Qin Dynasty established many administrative and legal reforms, along with standardizing measurements, currency, and even the writing system across the region. Despite its short duration, lasting until 206 BCE, the Qin Dynasty laid foundational structures for future Chinese dynasties and served as a model for subsequent governance, influencing China's development for centuries to come.