Overview of Major Chinese Dynasties and Philosophies

These flashcards cover key concepts, terminology, and important figures related to the major dynasties and philosophical developments in ancient China.

Centralized rule

A governance system where a single, hereditary monarchy exercises absolute power over a capital city.

Social hierarchy

A structured classification of society, ranking individuals from king and nobles at the top to slaves at the bottom.

Oracle bones

Turtle shells and animal bones used by Shang kings to consult ancestors for guidance.

Legalism

A political philosophy that advocates strict laws and harsh punishments to maintain order in society.

Mandate of Heaven

The belief that a ruler's authority is granted by a divine source, contingent on their just governance.

Cultural Diffusion

The exchange of goods and ideas between societies, often facilitated by trade routes like the Silk Road.

Filial piety (Xiao)

A core Confucian virtue emphasizing respect and reverence for one's parents and elders.

Dao (Tao)

The ultimate, unnamable reality in Daoism that represents the way of the cosmos and living in harmony.

Crossbow

A significant advancement in military technology during the Zhou Dynasty, enhancing warfare capabilities.

Terracotta Army

A massive collection of terracotta sculptures created to guard the tomb of Qin Shi Huang.

Compassion (Ren)

A core principle in Confucianism focusing on humaneness and altruism towards others.

Great Wall of China

A defensive barrier constructed during the Qin Dynasty to protect against northern invaders.

Iron agriculture

The increased use of iron tools in farming during the Zhou Dynasty, facilitating advanced agricultural methods.

Golden Age of China

A period marked by remarkable achievements in arts, science, and literature during the Tang and Song dynasties.

Junzi

The ideal noble person in Confucianism who embodies moral perfection through self-cultivation.

Lunar calendar

A calendar system developed by the Shang Dynasty based on the cycles of the moon.