Perez World Civ: China (History)

Geography

China has a varied Geography: Tibetan Plateau to the north, rainforest in the south, and the sea on the east.

Two Rivers

Yellow, Yangtze

Xia Dynasty

Considered the first dynasty of China, existing during the bronze age. Thought to be a legend but evidence proving it’s existence uncovered in recent times. Archaeologists found tombs with pottery, jade, clay irrigation pipes, and the world’s oldest bronze vessels.

Shang Dynasty

Also existing during the bronze age, considered the historical beginning of China as reliable historical/archaeological sources confirm its existence. 

Shang Monarchy

A theocratic monarchy headed by a king (Wang), who passed his kingship through the male line (Father to Eldest son to younger son). Servants were buried with royals.

Shang Religion

The Wang was a mediator between physical and divine worlds, and worshipped the omnipotent and metaphysical god Di, who holds absolute power over all human, natural, andd spiritual forces.  Shang religous practices emphasize worship of ancestors more than other contemporary cultures.

Oracle Bones?

The earliest known Chinese writing system.  Highly developed, and an iconographic form of writing that resembles contemporary Chinese characters.

Yinyang

The concept that life has two polar opposites that balance the universe

Shang Society

A hierarchy with the king and aristocracy at the top, followed by the millitary, artisans, and peasants/farmers.

Zhou Dynasty

The Zhou Dynasty was the longest-lasting dynasty in Chinese history. The Emperor (Referred as the “Son of heaven”) granted land to royal princes (Feudalism). Over time, the princes who govern the land take complete control over their land and assert independence.

Western/Eastern Zhou

Western Zhou (1122-771 BC) is ruled through extensive feudalism, and was broken in to many vassal states.  It was eventually ended by allied rebel states and outside invaders. 

Eastern Zhou (771-256 BC), was ruled by an emperor who held a primarily religious duty. Leads to the warring states period.

Period of Warring States

Three centuries where various states in China fought for dominance. This period led to advancements in society, commerce, and philosophy (Confucianism, Daoism and Legalism emerged).  Eventually unified under the victorious Qin state.

Qin Dynasty

United much of modern day China at the end of the period of warring states, and had mountainous protection/advantage from Eastern kingdoms.

Western Han Dynasty

During the Western Han Dynasty (202 BC-9 AD) China becomes more of a confederation than a traditional empire. Under the Han Dynasty, China take control of the silk road.  Ends when conservative peasants rebel and try to reverse Wang Mang’s reforms (Red Eyed Rebellion).

Silk Road

A valuable trade route through central Asia connecting northern China to the Mediterranean. Gives China additional wealth and political power.

Eastern Han Dynasty

The Eastern Han Dynasty (9-220 AD) followed the Western Han, and had a long succession of innefective rulers. Much of government power rested in the hands of eunuchs.

Yellow Turban Rebellion

Food Rebellion against early han dynasty.

Han Legacy

The Han Legacy includes the invention of paper, civil service recruitment through examinations, and that most Chinese people today consider themselves Han Chinese.

Daoism

Dao/Tao means “The way”, a divine order for things, and nature.  Things that aren’t nature (Kings, armies, taxes, are not worth honoring).  Wuwei/Inaction was the way to become one with the Dao.  Daoism appeals more to the lower social class.  Lao Zi, the most important Daoist philospher writes the Doadejing, (Book of Reason and virtue).

Confucianism

A philosophical system based on the teachings of Confucius, emphasizing moral integrity, social harmony, and the importance of family, education, and respect for authority. Confucianism has significantly influenced Chinese culture and government. It promotes the idea of filial piety (Virtues towards elders) and the role of virtuous leaders in society.

Legalism

Man is selfish and easily corrupted/influenced. The Emperor holds absolute power over his Kingdom.

Sui Dynasty

A short-lived dynasty that unified China from 581 to 618 AD, known for significant reforms and the construction of the Grand Canal, which enhanced trade and transportation, but its true purpose is debated. The Largest man made waterway in history.

Medieval Era

The far east adopts aspects of Chinese culture, prominently Japan through the regent Shotoku Taishi

Tang Dynasty

The Tang Dynasty fought against barbarians and Turkish raiders. Religious tolerances flourished, the death penalty was abolished, economy/commerce improved, roads were build and the military was reorganized. Ruled by Tang Taizong, Wu Zetian, and had it’s golden age under Tang Xuanzong.

Song Dynasty

Song Innovations

Song Cultural Features (1100-1200)