The Warring States Period Ancient China

Warring States Period

A period from 481/403 BCE to 221 BCE in Ancient China characterized by rival states battling for territorial advantage.

Eastern Zhou Dynasty

A dynasty from 771-256 BCE that was crumbling, leading to reliance on allied states for military support.

Military leader

In the context of the Zhou, a leader from another state who was made military head of the alliance.

Consolidation of states

The process by which nearly 100 small states were combined into seven major states by conquest.

Defensive walls

Long structures built along frontiers in the Warring States Period for protection, some surviving today.

Independence from Zhou Empire

The rulers of individual states declared themselves kings and sought to expand their territories independently.

Intermarriage

A common policy among royal families that led to succession disputes and territorial conflicts.

New type of warfare

An evolution in warfare during this period, featuring cavalry, large infantry, and advanced iron weapons.

Espionage

The use of intelligence and subterfuge in warfare that played a significant role in military victories.

359 wars

The number of wars fought between states during the period of 585 to 286 BCE.