CHINESE DYNASTIES

Ancient Dynasties Xia- (2100-1600 BCE)- “The Legendary

Dynasty” founded by “Yu the Great” Settled along the Huang He (Yellow) River. Yu was considered an engineer and one of the

first rulers who tried to harness the floodwaters of the Huang He. (Irrigation System)

Archeologists have found no evidence of the dynasty's remains. Based on Chinese legends.

Xia Location

Huang He (Yellow River)

Ancient Dynasties Cont. Shang- (1700-1000 BCE)- Major Characteristics/Accomplishments:

* Had divided social classes* Created a 3,000 character system of writing.* Used bronze to create weapons, vessels, and war chariots* Agriculture was main way of life and developed a farming calendar.* Sericulture- Raising of mulberry trees to attract worms that fed off of trees and produced silk.

Shang Dynasty Writing/Weapons

Shang Dynasty Location

Zhou Dynasty (1028-221 BCE)

Conquered the Shang Dynasty Created a feudal state- Gave land to their friend

and relatives in return for their help and support. Created first-ever money (Cash driven) economy. Used iron to create more deadly war weapons. Increased farming by using ox-drawn plow. Major crops included soy, rice, and wheat.

Zhou Dynasty (1028-221 BCE)

Zhou Dynasty

Qin Dynasty (221-207BCE) Shi Huang Di- First Emperor Freed the peasants and made nobles his prisoners. Government was based on Legalism. Built road systems throughout his empire. Standardized everything and made Legalism the

only legitimate way of thought. Burned all books and banned other schools of

thought.

Qin Dynasty/Great Wall of China

Great Wall of China stretched 1500 miles from east to west.

HAN DYNASTY (207BCE-220 CE) Emperor Liu Bang, a peasant leader, overthrew the Qin

Dynasty. Central Control through: Civil Service Exam to choose

gov’t officials and workers. Exam based on Confucian teachings, Chinese law, history,

and traditions.) Helped to Strengthen Government because jobs were now

attained based on merit and not birth or wealth. Improved calendar, made advances in medicine:

Acupuncture, Complex flood control systems

HAN DYNASTY (207BCE-220 CE)