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Ancient Chinese History Overview

Sep 16, 2025

Overview

This lecture covers the major periods of ancient Chinese history, highlighting key dynasties, cultural advancements, and significant historical events.

Prehistoric and Early Civilizations

  • Human remains in China date back as far as 1.7 million years ago, with early use of tools and fire.
  • Banpo Village, from circa 4500 BCE, shows early agriculture, drainage systems, and pottery.
  • Early people demonstrated advanced societal organization and technological skills.

Xia, Shang, and Zhou Dynasties

  • The Xia Dynasty (ca. 2070–1600 BCE) is considered the first Chinese dynasty, founded by Yu the Great.
  • Shang Dynasty (ca. 1600–1046 BCE) saw the development of writing, bronze work, and ancestor worship.
  • Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE) introduced the Mandate of Heaven, justifying rule by divine approval.
  • Philosophers like Confucius, Lao-Tzu, and Sun-Tzu lived during the Zhou period.

Period of Decentralization and Unification

  • The Spring and Autumn (ca. 772–476 BCE) and Warring States (ca. 481–221 BCE) periods saw decentralization and conflict among states.
  • The Qin state unified China in 221 BCE under Ying Zheng (Shi Huangdi), starting the imperial era.
  • Shi Huangdi built the first Great Wall and suppressed rival philosophies.

Han Dynasty and Prosperity

  • Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE) was founded by Liu-Bang (Emperor Gaozu).
  • The Han era saw advances in technology, paper-making, and the opening of the Silk Road for trade.
  • Wu Ti (Wu the Great) expanded China's territory and improved infrastructure.

Later Dynasties and Turmoil

  • The Xin Dynasty briefly interrupted Han rule before the Eastern Han period restored stability.
  • Rebellions and corruption weakened the Han, leading to the Three Kingdoms period (220–280 CE).
  • Sui Dynasty (589–618 CE) reunited China with efficient bureaucracy.

Tang, Song, and Beyond

  • Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE) marked a "Golden Age," with cultural and economic prosperity, but ended after major rebellions.
  • Song Dynasty (960–1279 CE) restored stability and promoted Neo-Confucianism.
  • Mongol Yuan Dynasty (1279–1368 CE) followed by the culturally rich Ming Dynasty (1368–1644 CE).
  • Qing Dynasty (1644–1911 CE) was the last imperial dynasty.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Mandate of Heaven — divine approval believed necessary for a ruler's legitimacy.
  • Ancestor Worship — practice of honoring deceased family members, common in early China.
  • Silk Road — trade route connecting China to the West, established under the Han.
  • Neo-Confucianism — philosophy blending Confucianism with other ideas, influential in Song China.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Review the chronological order and main achievements of each major dynasty.
  • Study the significance of the Mandate of Heaven and its impact on Chinese political thought.