The first Emperor of China was Qin Shi Huang, who reigned from 221 to 210 BC. He is known for unifying China after centuries of warring states and for founding the Qin Dynasty. Qin Shi Huang implemented sweeping reforms, including standardizing weights, measures, and even the written script, which helped to consolidate the newly unified state. His reign is also marked by the construction of extensive infrastructure projects, such as roads and the early sections of the Great Wall. However, his authoritarian rule and the harshness of his legalist policies generated widespread discontent, eventually leading to the dynasty's downfall.