Ancient China
History Resource – The Legacy of Ancient China – Dynasties
A dynasty is a family in power that passes on control of the country from one generation to the next. Studying the dynasties of ancient and early imperial China is a great place to start to understand the history of this ancient civilization.
XIA DYNASTY (c. 2205 to 1766 B.C.) The Xia dynasty was believed to have been a mythological dynasty for many years. Some historians still debate whether the dynasty did exist. In 1959, archaeologists located a city thought to be the capital of the Xia Dynasty. There is much to be learned about this early Chinese civilization.
SHANG DYNASTY (c. 1766 to 1122 B.C.) The Shang united a large part of China under one king and left a written history. The twelve month calendar with thirty days in each month was developed by the Shang.
ZHOU DYNASTY (1122 to 256 B.C.) The Zhou dynasty gained power from the Shang and ruled China for almost a thousand years. They developed powerful weapons by smelting iron from rocks and learning how to process it into a strong metal. A feudal system was established in China by the Zhou. Large walls were built around their cities for defense. The nobles became more powerful, the Zhou dynasty ended, and China entered the Age of Warring States.
QIN DYNASTY (221 to 206 B.C.) The Qin dynasty unified China in 221 B.C. (under the leadership of Qin Shi Huangdi). Under the Qin dynasty, the Legalists strengthened power of the state with laws that were clearly explained and strictly enforced. Feudalism was abolished. Weights, measures, currency, and the legal system were standardized.
HAN DYNASTY (206 B.C. to 220 A.D.) The Han continued to unify and expand China. In the beginning, most of the laws and regulations established during the Qin dynasty were kept but the principles of Confucius became the foundation of the government until 1911 (when the monarchy was overthrown). During the reign of Emperor Wu, the Chinese territory became larger than the Roman Empire. He also pioneered the trade route known as the Silk Road from Xi’an, Shaanzi Province, through Central Asia and on to the east coast of the Mediterranean Sea.
Cathy Diez-Luckie, Figures In Motion – Publisher of Captivating Activity Books for Children
To receive a free e-newsletter and explore fascinating facts about the great men and women of history and the time in which they lived, with links about famous people, archaeology, art, architecture, maps, and geography sign up at http://www.figuresinmotion.com/club.html.
Learn about a new hands-on teaching resource for ancient history (children ages 6 to 12) at http://www.figuresinmotion.com. Make your own action figures from ancient history!
About the Author
Inventions of the Great Ancient Chinese Empire (1 of 5)
|
|
Shun DM0750 Sharpening Steel $49.95 Featuring durable stain-resistant steel construction, this sturdy sharpening tool promises to keep kitchen knives in razor-sharp cutting condition. Measuring 9-1/4 inches in length, the gradually diminishing circular rod has blade-honing, miniscule ridges running up and down its body. A protective steel guard keeps fingers safe during sharpening. Designed to fit comfortably in hand, a fused blend … |
|
|
Large Chinese Clay Pot (2.5 qt) with Two Handles $24.95 Made from exceptional clay found only in China that withstands a direct flame or direct contact with an electric burner. These pots represent a quite ancient and authentic part of Chinese cuisine. They are referred to as “sandy pots” due to their sandy exterior and course texture, yet the interior of these pots has a dark brown, smooth glaze. Many of the clay pots also come with a removable wire “… |
|
|
3 – Tier Chinese Lunchbox – Sold by: The Wok Shop $34.95 Traditionally in China workers did not eat cold lunches, but instead brought these metal food carriers with multiple layers to heat over a range top stove. Each layer serves to hold either rice, soup, vegetables, meat or fish. The durable stainless steel design is made to last. A tight clasp holds the various layers in place and a sturdy handle makes the lunch box easy to carry. Each layer is 6″ d… |
|
|
Masterpieces of Chinese Traditional Music $12.18 All products are BRAND NEW and factory sealed. Fast shipping and 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed…. |
|
|
Survivor: The Official Soundtrack to the Hit CBS TV Series $8.73 All products are BRAND NEW and factory sealed. Fast shipping and 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed…. |
|
|
The Yellow River Concerto $5.43 All products are BRAND NEW and factory sealed. Fast shipping and 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed…. |
|
|
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon $9.99 … |
|
|
Hero … |
|
|
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon … |
|
|
20X Hexagon Triplet Loupe Jewelers Gemstone Tool $25.99 20X Hexagon Triplet Loupe Jewelers Gemstone Opti Tool * This is a new 20X hexagonal triplet loupe |