Zhou Dynasty Emily Hajdu

Introduction The Zhou dynasty had many things that they accomplished. One example is that they used a system called Confucianism that taught people to lead by example. Also, they used a formula called Daoism that told people that you should go with the way nature took you. Lastly, the Zhou dynasty used a technique called legalism which was led by a harsh ruler who believed that there needed to be harsh laws and punishments for there to be peace and order. All of these things led to a greater ancient China.

Confucianism Confucius believed that the government and society needed to change in order to have peace and order. He taught that the government officials needed to be honest and fair. They also needed to govern wisely. Also, according to Confucianism, there were five basic relationships: ruler and subject, husband and wife, father and wife, father and son, older and younger siblings, and lastly friend and friend. Politicians helped contribute to the spreading, development, and formation of Confucianism. Also, Confucius wrote a book called, “The Analects” which was on of the most important Chinese classics. Everybody must respect and obey the ones above them. This helped keep China from fighting.

Daoism Daoism taught that by living in harmony with nature, you will gain peace and happiness. Daoism taught that you should go with the way that nature took you, pretty much like “go with the flow.” The people that practiced the way of Daoism, used a symbol called Yin and Yang. They used that symbol to balance opposites. Yin meant shadowed and Yang meant sunlit. The founder of Daoism, Lao Tsu, believed that it was wrong for anybody to make a lot of rules and laws. He taught that people should make their own decisions in a situation. Daoism helped ancient China by teaching people that you should go with the flow and be happy.

Legalism Legalism taught that there needed to be harsh punishments and laws in order for there to be peace and happiness. There would be awards for good behavior and punishments for bad. In addition, there was a people called civil servants who worked for the government. They were to be watched carefully to make sure they were doing a good job. Also, to make sure they weren't criticizing the government. Although Legalism started in the Zhou dynasty, it was first ran under the Qin dynasty. Qin believed that Legalism was not a cruel way to rule. Qian was also the first man who controlled all of China. He didn’t want to be called King but First Emperor Qin. Legalism helped ancient China by teaching people to live by rules.

Conclusion Overall, the Zhou dynasty helped improve ancient China by making many achievements such as, reducing the amount of fighting by teaching the ways of Confucianism. In addition, by going with the way of Daoism, you could learn how to go with the flow and be happy. Lastly, taught people to live by rules.