Ancient China
Explore Ancient China from the Shang Dynasty to the fall of the Han. Discover the dynasties, people, society, culture, and innovations that shaped Chinese civilization.
Ancient China
Explore the beginnings and development of ancient Chinese civilization, from the Shang Dynasty to the fall of the Han Dynasty. This series examines the rise of royal power, the formation of imperial China, the lives of its people, its cultural traditions, and its lasting contributions to the world.
Introduction to Ancient China
Discover the history of ancient China, from the Shang and Zhou dynasties to the Qin and Han empires. Explore the origins of Chinese civilization, its rulers, philosophies, society, culture, and remarkable achievements.
Chapter 1 – Chinese Lands and the Birth of China
Explore the origins of Chinese civilization, from prehistoric settlements and Neolithic cultures to the legendary rulers, Xia Dynasty, and rise of early states in ancient China.
Chapter 2 – The Shang and Zhou Dynasties and the Rise of Royal Power
Explore the Shang and Zhou Dynasties, from Bronze Age China and oracle-bone writing to the rise of Zhou rule, the Mandate of Heaven, and the changing power of ancient Chinese kings.
Chapter 3 – The Disintegration of Royal Power
Explore how Zhou royal power declined during the Eastern Zhou, as powerful regional states, military competition, new forms of government, and emerging philosophies transformed ancient China.