Ancient China Early civilization grew up along the banks of the Yellow River The Xia were the first dynasty according to tradition There were 3 cultural heroes who introduced the arts of civilization to the early Chinese There were 3 sages who helped govern early China

Shang Dynasty BC Prized bronze above gold Ruled by a king but divided into city-states Aristocracy controlled bronze production Written language preserved on oracle bones Shang Ti, Lord on High, ruled over gods of the elements

The Chou Dynasty BC Kept some Shang policies Mandate of Heaven Two capitals Laid basis for ethics, philosophy, culture, and morals

Chou Dynasty Lao Tzu Taoism