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Early Empires. Xia: Beginning of Chinese civilization -dates disputable -Ruler credited with irrigation and drainage techniques. Shang Dynasty 1571-1045 BCE. Villages along Yellow River organized First “Dynasty” or ruling family in China Agriculturally based
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Early Empires • Xia: Beginning of Chinese civilization -dates disputable -Ruler credited with irrigation and drainage techniques
Shang Dynasty1571-1045 BCE • Villages along Yellow River organized • First “Dynasty” or ruling family in China • Agriculturally based • Aristocracy ruled, warrior class dominant • Cities center of political and religious control • Kings rule highly centralized • Evidence of contact w/other civilizations • Horse drawn chariots
Shang cont…. • Mastery of bronze casting • Sophisticated writing system • Oracle bones represent belief system • Divination important part of decision making
Zhou cont… • Economic demands-Societal changes • Well field system • Increase in merchants and artisans • Water control projects • Iron plows • Hundred Schools of Ancient Philosophy • Confucianism, Legalism, Daoism