1. Dynasties Similar to Egypt Culture stays mostly the same throughout
First starts 2070 BC
Last falls 1911 AD
Not all equally powerful
List of Major Dynasties:
Xia, Shang, Zhou, Qin, Han, Jin, Sui, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, Qing

2. Xia and Shang Dynasties
Xia once thought to be mythical
Archaeology is beginning to support it’s existence
Hard to prove either way

3. Shang Dynasty
1705 BC
Much better understood than Xia though not completely
Bonze casting (weapons, etc.)

7. Shang cont.
Oracle bones
Divination

8. Zhou Dynasty (1045-256 BC) Longest in Chinese history
Constantly dealing with ‘barbarian’ hordes
First Chinese dynasty to use chariots
Invented crossbow

11. Example of Chinese Repeating Crossbow

12. Zhou cont. Governmental concepts
Mandate of Heaven (Divine Right of Kings)
Emperor chosen by gods