Which ruler is remembered for his ruthless conquests and standardization of various aspects of society?

The ruler known for his ruthless conquests and significant impact on standardizing various aspects of society is Shi Huangdi. As the first Emperor of China, he played a crucial role in unifying the disparate warring states into a single empire during the Qin Dynasty around the 3rd century BCE. His methods were often harsh, marked by strict laws and severe punishments to maintain order and authority.

Shi Huangdi's legacy includes major reforms that standardized weights, measures, currency, and even script, which facilitated trade and communication across the vast empire. His efforts laid the groundwork for a unified Chinese cultural identity that endured for centuries. The construction of the Great Wall of China and his mausoleum, guarded by the Terracotta Army, also highlight his ambitious undertakings during his rule.

While other rulers in the choices made significant contributions to their respective societies, none implemented the level of centralization and standardization or achieved the breadth of conquests seen under Shi Huangdi's leadership.