Dynasties of Ancient China

Ruled from 1046-256 B.C.E.

Ruled during the "Iron Age." Invented the compass and the kite. Made many advancements in farming (fertilizer, pesticides, etc.) Created the Mandate of Heaven. Confucius and Laozi are from this dynasty.

• The Zhou Dynasty

• The Tang Dynasty

• The Han Dynasty

• The Qin Dynasty

Ruled from 618 C.E to 884 C.E.

"Golden Age" of China's history. The capital city Chang'an had up to 80 million people. Discovered gunpowder. Protected travel alone the Silk Road.

• The Qin Dynasty

• The Shang Dynasty

• The Tang Dynasty

• The Zhou Dynasty

Ruled from 221 B.C.E to 207 B.C.E

Posted laws in plain view for all citizens to see. Had harsh punishements for law breakers. Had only 1 ruler. Used iron weapons. Created a standard for Chinese writing and money. Began construction of the Great Wall of China. China is named after this dynasty.

• The Tang Dynasty

• The Qin Dynasty

• The Shang Dynasty

• The Han Dynasty

Ruled from 1600 B.C.E to 1046 B.C.E.

First to use infantry attack (horseback). Bronze working became common. Determined the correct year length (365 and 1/4 days). Created complex irrigation systems. Worshiped ancestors.

• Shang Dynasty

• Han Dynasty

• Tang Dynasty

• Zhou Dynasty

Ruled from 206 B.C.E to 220 C.E.

92% of Chinese people today consider themselves part of this dynasty. Began using steel. Created one the the first forms of paper. Developed acupuncture. Measured earthquakes and were the first to launch a hot air balloon. Invented the wheelbarrow, glazed pottery, and stirrups for horse saddles. Required all govenment officials to take a civil service exam instead of just being chosen because of your family.

• The Qin Dynasty

• The Shand Dynasty

• The Tang Dynasty

• The Han Dynasty