SS: Ancient China Study Guide

Yellow River

A river in Northern China known as the “cradle of Chinese civilization” because many early Chinese societies started near it.

Yangtze River

The longest river in China, located in the south. It provided water for farming and was important for trade and travel.

Rice

A type of grain that was a major food crop in Ancient China, especially in the southern regions near the Yangtze River.

Gobi Desert

A large desert in northern China that has harsh weather and played a role in protecting China from invaders.

Dynastic Cycle

The pattern in which Chinese dynasties rose to power, ruled, and then lost power. A new family would take over when the old one became weak or unfair.

Warring States Period

A time in Chinese history (because China was united) when many small kingdoms fought each other for power

Philosophy

A way of thinking about life, right and wrong, and how people should live.

Ethics

Ideas about what is right and wrong, and how people should treat each other. Ancient Chinese philosophies often focused on good ethics.

Confucianism

A belief system started by Confucius that teaches people to respect their parents, elders, and rulers. It focuses on proper behavior, kindness and strong relationships.

Filial Piety

A key idea in Confucianism that means showing love, respect, and obedience to your parents and elders.

Daoism

A philosophy that teaches people to live simply and in harmony with nature. It encourages going with the flow and not forcing things.

Yin and Yang

A Dalits idea that shows how opposite forces—like light and dark—are connected and need each other to keep the world in balance.

Legalism

A belief that people need strict laws and harsh punishments to behave properly. It was used by rulers who wanted strong control over their people.

The Silk Road

A network of trade routes that connected China to the Middle East and Europe. It helped spread goods like silk and tea, as well as ideas and inventions.

The Great Wall

A long wall built y to protect China from invaders. it was built over many years by different dynasties and stretches thousands of miles.

Tea

A popular drink that originated in China. Ancient Chinese people grew tea leaves and used them in daily life and special ceremonies.