Zhou Dynasty: The longest-lasting Chinese dynasty, lasting from 1045 BCE to 256 BCE. It was characterized by its feudal system, in which powerful lords controlled their own regions and paid homage to the Zhou kings. The most notable leaders were King Wu, King Cheng, and King Huan. Qin Dynasty: The first imperial dynasty of China, lasting from 221-206 BCE. It was characterized by the establishment of a unified Chinese empire and the construction of the Great Wall of China. The most notable leaders were the first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, and his imperial chancellor, Li Si. Han Dynasty: The second imperial dynasty of China, lasting from 206 BCE to 220 CE. It was characterized by the expansion of the Chinese empire to its greatest extent. The most notable leaders were Emperor Wu and Empress Dowager Wang.
Concepts:
What were the 3 dynasties of Ancient China?
Which dynasty had the greatest influence on modern Chinese society and how can we learn from their accomplishments to improve our own lives today?
The Zhou dynasty is regarded as the longest dynasty in Chinese history, lasting for over 800 years. It was divided into two main periods: the Western Zhou and the Eastern Zhou.
Zhou Dynasty
How long did the Zhou Dynasty last?
- 400 years
- 600 years
- 800 years
- 1000 years
The Zhou dynasty established the feudal system, which allowed the king to control the various states under his rule. The Zhou dynasty is credited with the development of Confucianism and Taoism, two major philosophical schools in China. The Zhou dynasty is credited with the creation of the Chinese calendar, which is still in use today.
Zhou Dynasty: Accomplishments
Which philosophies were developed during the Zhou Dynasty
King Wu (1046 BCE-1043 BCE) - He was the founder of the Zhou dynasty, and his reign marked the end of the Shang dynasty. Duke of Zhou (1043 BCE-1048 BCE) - He was King Wu's younger brother and played a significant role in establishing the Zhou dynasty's feudal system. King Wen (1099 BCE-1050 BCE) - He was the father of King Wu and contributed to the Zhou dynasty's early development.
Zhou Dynasty: Leaders
Who founded the Zhou Dynasty?
- King Wow
- Duke of Zhou
- King Wen
- King Wu
The Qin Dynasty (221 BCE-206 BCE), lasting only 15 years. However, it brought about significant changes that had a lasting impact on Chinese history. The Qin dynasty is credited with unifying China under one rule and establishing a centralized government.
Qin Dynasty
How long did the Qin Dynasty last?
- 150 Years
- 100 Years
- 50 Years
- 15 Years
The Qin dynasty standardized the Chinese writing system, currency, weights, and measures. The Qin dynasty built the Great Wall of China, which served as a defensive structure against invading armies. The Qin dynasty abolished feudalism and established a system of prefectures and counties, which made it easier to govern the country.
Qin: Accomplishments
What building project was started during the Qin Dynasty
- The Forbidden City
- The Silk Road
- The Great Wall of China
- Beijing
The Han dynasty is considered one of the most significant dynasties in Chinese history, lasting for over 400 years. It was divided into two main periods: the Western Han and the Eastern Han. The Han dynasty saw significant developments in technology, agriculture, and commerce, which had a lasting impact on China's economy and society.
The Han Dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE)
In what area did Han China NOT see significant development?
- Technology
- Military
- Agriculture
- Commerce
The Han dynasty saw the invention of paper and the development of the silk road, which led to significant developments in commerce. They established a civil service system, which allowed people to work for the government based on their skills and knowledge. The Han dynasty saw significant developments in agriculture, with the introduction of new farming techniques.
Han: Accomplishments
What did the Han develop that led to greater commerce?
- Agriculture
- The Silk Road
- The Great Wall of China
- Silk production
In what order did the Zhou, Qin, and Han dynasties rule in China?
What did the leaders of the Qin Dynasty accomplish, and how did it shape Chinese culture?
The Zhou dynasty was the longest lasting dynasty in Chinese history, lasting from 1045 to 256 BC. The Qin dynasty built the first Great Wall of China during their rule. The Han dynasty was the first to establish a permanent civil service system to select officials through examinations.
Did you know?
What were the differences between the Zhou and the Han Dynasties?
How did the accomplishments of the Zhou, Qin, and Han dynasties shape the society and culture of China?
How did the leaders of the Zhou Dynasty contribute to the development of Chinese civilization?
Which dynasty was the first to unify China?
The Han dynasty is credited with the invention of paper and silk.
What was the name of the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty?
- Ming
- Qin Shi Huang
- Liu Bang
- Confucius
What did the Zhou Dynasty invent?
- Steel
- Silk
- The Printing Press
- The Compass
What was the main accomplishment of the Qin Dynasty?
- Unification of China
- Invention of Paper
- Introduction of Buddhism
- Creation of the Great Wall
Work together in pairs: What important achievements did each of the Zhou, Qin, and Han dynasties have that helped shape Chinese culture as we know it today?