Vocabulary Week 13

Xia Dynasty The “first” dynasty in China’s history. Developed flood control for the Yellow River. *Category*: Culture

Shang Dynasty First documented dynasty of China. *Category*: Culture

Zhou Dynasty Third dynasty of China, and the longest lasting dynasty *Category*: Culture

Mandate of Heaven A Chinese concept used to justify the rule of kings and emperors. Just/fair rulers were said to have the Mandate of Heaven. *Category*: Government

Oracle Bones Ancient Chinese characters found on animal bones or turtle shells used in divination in ancient China *Category*: Culture

Dynastic Cycle The cycle that the dynasties went through from their beginning to end: 1- New ruler rises 2- Unifies power and territory 3- Economic growth peaks 4- Corruption/taxes cause fall 5- Dynasty collapses

Jade Typically green gemstones that take a high polish. Carved into jewelry and sculptures *Category*: Culture

Pottery One of the oldest and most widespread of the decorated arts, consisting mainly of functional objects (plates, bowls) *Category*: Culture

Silkworm A moth whose larva spins a large amount of strong silk in constructing it’s cocoon

Dike A bank usually of earth, constructed to control or confine water *Category*: Geography

Centralization To concentrate by placing power and authority in a center or central organization *Category*: Government

Lady Hao Queen that became a military general and priestess *Category*: Government