The term "Laughing Qin" refers to the reign of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China, during the Qin Dynasty. This term encapsulates the complex and often humorous aspects of his rule, which was marked by both monumental achievements and brutal authoritarianism.

The reason "Laughing Qin" is an apt description lies in the Emperor's unconventional and sometimes comical approach to governance. Emperor Qin Shi Huang was known for his eccentricities, such as his obsession with immortality and his grandiose building projects, like the Great Wall of China and the Terracotta Army. These endeavors, while showcasing his ambition and power, also highlighted his whimsical nature.

Historical records and archaeological findings provide evidence of this. For instance, the Terracotta Army, which was intended to protect the Emperor in the afterlife, is a testament to his desire for immortality. The intricate details and the variety of the soldiers' expressions suggest a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that was not typical of military forces of the time. This meticulousness, combined with the seemingly absurd scale of the project, lends itself to a sense of humor.

Moreover, the Emperor's pursuit of immortality through alchemy and his extravagant lifestyle, which included a vast collection of concubines and a lavish court, further illustrate his unconventional character. These aspects of his rule were not only comical but also indicative of his disregard for traditional Confucian values.

According to the "Records of the Grand Historian" by Sima Qian, a contemporary historian, Emperor Qin Shi Huang was known for his eccentricities. Sima Qian's account of the Emperor's reign includes anecdotes that highlight his humorous side, such as his attempt to communicate with the gods through the construction of the Lishan Tombs, which were designed to resemble mountains.

In conclusion, "Laughing Qin" is a fitting term for the reign of Emperor Qin Shi Huang due to his unconventional and often comical approach to governance. The historical evidence, including archaeological findings and historical texts, supports this characterization, providing a rich tapestry of the Emperor's complex personality and his rule's multifaceted nature.