China: The 1st “empire” in the world’s history to succeed without conquest and plunder of other nations

China is probably the first “empire” in the world’s history to succeed without conquest and plunder of other nations.

Everyone else from the Romans to Mongolians and Ottomans to Europeans (Spanish, Dutch, French, British) and Americans… have relied on the exploitation of others.

The American Empire is more sophisticated in hiding its brutality, conquest, and exploitation. It’s done through neoliberalism, banks, debt, corporations, media, wars, etc.

Of course, China’s large population helped in terms of labor, but managing one billion+ people itself is a great achievement.