1. Zhou (Chou) Dynasty 1076-221 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
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3. Mandate of Heaven Principles: Advantages:
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.

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

5. Economy Iron age 90% of peasants lived on farms in family compounds
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

6. 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

7. 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

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

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