Zhou (Chou) Dynasty BC (pronounced Jo) POLITICS Regional feudal states similar to Shang Ruled as coordinators rather than as a central govt. military force determined strength of rulers Conflict led to decline into the "Period of the Warring States" ( B.C.). Introduced Mandate of Heaven Slideshow from

Mandate of Heaven Principles: –right to rule is granted by Heaven. –only one Heaven so only one ruler in China. –right to rule depends on the virtue of the ruler. Advantages: –It gives the ruler supreme power politically and religiously –power kept in check by virtue. The Mandate of Heaven justifies rebellion as long as the rebellion is successful.

The Dynastic Cycle A new dynasty comes to power. Lives of common people improved; taxes reduced; farming encouraged. Problems begin (extensive wars, invasions, etc.) Taxes increase; men forced to work for army. Farming neglected. Govt. increases spending; corruption. Droughts, floods, famines occur. Poor lose respect for govt. They join rebels & attack landlords. Rebel bands find strong leader who unites them. Attack the emperor. Emperor is defeated !! The emperor reforms the govt. & makes it more efficient. Start here 

Economy Iron age –stronger and cheaper than bronze –weapons strengthened Zhou army catapult creation of China’s first cavalry 90% of peasants lived on farms in family compounds new iron tools increased harvest, food surpluses Silk was their most important product Roads, canals allowed better transportation, communication Introduced coins, use of chopsticks Population grew under Zhou Cities grew in size

Philosophy (Religion) At the end of the Zhou (403 BC-221BC), China disintegrated into “the Warring States period” as Zhou leaders lost control and states fought each other 100 Schools Movement tried to bring stability to China Confucianism Taoism and Legalism Are the resulting philosophies of life and govt

Basic beliefs Dualism – everything relates to everything else and works best when in balance (Yin/Yang) Harmony, cooperation, submission to the larger group while allowing for individuality Heaven controls life on Earth and life passes from parent to child. Because each child receives life from its parents it makes sense that the child should “worship” his or her parents

Society 1.Emperor 2.Regional rulers 3.Farmers 4. Slaves BUT, Confucian ideals changed this near the end of the Zhou

Intellectual Developments Re-write from other locations in notes

Art Bronze work Tombs decorated for wealthy Hawk-shaped gold hat ornament (8th - 3rd century B.C.)‏