The foreigners on the borders did n

The foreigners on the borders did not have the most direct role in the technological, agricultural, and economical achievements in the Song dynasty, but without the hostile states on the border the series of events that led to prosperity never would have occurred. The denser population in the south that led to more productive farms and a burgeoning economy is a direct result of the threat of foreign invaders. The military spending helped spur advances in metallurgy and helped expand industries was only done from the hostile intentions of neighbors. Without the hostile states surrounding it the Song tribe never would have been forced into the greatness that the Song dynasty is known for.