In the context of "Abandoning the Qin and sighing," the term "abandoning" refers to the act of forsaking or giving up the Qin Dynasty, which was a short-lived but highly influential empire in ancient China. The phrase suggests a sense of loss or regret associated with the end of this period.

The Qin Dynasty, established in 221 BCE by Qin Shi Huang, was known for its centralized rule and the implementation of the Legalist philosophy. However, it lasted only 15 years before it collapsed in 206 BCE. The reasons for its abandonment can be attributed to several factors, including harsh rule, corruption, and the overextension of its empire.

One of the primary reasons for the abandonment of the Qin Dynasty was the oppressive nature of its rule. Qin Shi Huang's policies were characterized by strict laws and harsh penalties, which led to widespread discontent among the population. According to Sima Qian's "Records of the Grand Historian," the Qin Dynasty's legal code was so severe that it resulted in a high number of executions, which created a climate of fear and instability.

Data from historical records indicate that the Qin Dynasty's laws were so stringent that they were often seen as inhumane. For instance, the death penalty was imposed for a wide range of offenses, including minor infractions such as not wearing the correct uniform or not standing in line correctly. This heavy-handed approach to governance led to widespread resentment among the people.

Furthermore, the overextension of the Qin Dynasty's empire contributed to its downfall. Qin Shi Huang's ambition to unite China led to the rapid expansion of the empire, which was not only costly but also strained the resources of the state. The constant warfare and the heavy taxation required to fund these endeavors took a toll on the economy and the morale of the people.

Historical data from the "Records of the Grand Historian" and other ancient texts suggest that the Qin Dynasty's military campaigns were particularly devastating. The constant warfare not only depleted the state's resources but also led to the loss of many lives. The heavy taxation and conscription of soldiers further exacerbated the economic and social problems within the empire.

In conclusion, "abandoning the Qin Dynasty" refers to the act of forsaking or giving up this short-lived empire due to its oppressive rule, corruption, and overextension. The harsh laws, economic strain, and social unrest that characterized the Qin Dynasty's reign ultimately led to its collapse. Historical records provide evidence of the severe consequences of Qin Shi Huang's policies, which contributed to the abandonment of the empire.