History of Asia

What were the penalties for revealing secrets of making silk in ancient china?

The penalties for revealing secrets of making silk in ancient China were severe and could include the death penalty. Silk production was a closely guarded secret in ancient China, and the government took strict measures to prevent the spread of this knowledge to other countries. Anyone caught attempting to smuggle silkworms or silk out of China could face severe punishment, including execution. In some cases, even family members of those who were caught revealing silk secrets were punished, in order to deter others from attempting the same.