The first emperor of the Qin dynasty in China was Qin Shi Huang, who ascended to the throne in 221 BCE, unifying the warring states into a single empire. He is known for implementing significant reforms, including standardizing weights and measures, currency, and even the written script across China, which facilitated trade and communication. Qin Shi Huang also initiated the construction of the Great Wall and the Terracotta Army, which served as his elaborate burial site. His authoritarian rule laid the foundations for the imperial system in China, though his harsh methods led to widespread dissatisfaction and ultimately contributed to the dynasty's downfall.