1. Government and Dynasties of Ancient China

3. No archaeological evidence that this dynasty existed. (Legendary!)
Xia Dynasty ( sounds like Shah)
King was important, served by nobles.
Social order organized.
Writing system developed.
Advancements-bronze objects and jade.
Shang Dynasty B.C.
Longest lasting dynasty in Chinese history. (400 yrs.)
Mandate of Heaven (heaven gives right to rule)
New political order feudalism (lords and peasants; land for military service)
Zhou Dynasty (sounds like Joh)- 800 B.C.

4. Warring States Period- War lasted 200 years!
Shi Huangdi unifies China (first emperor).
Created a strong government with strict laws and harsh punishments.
Expanded the empire.
Did not share power with lords
Created standard laws, writing system, currency, and weights.
Built roads and canals.
Built irrigation system to improve farming.
Started building the Great Wall of China to prevent invasion.
Qin Dynasty (sounds like Chin)- 221 B.C.
Liu Bang, a commoner, becomes emperor
Wanted a government that was less harsh than Qin Dynasty
Changed the way government worked-jobs based on merit (passing a test)
The Silk Road expanded trade.
Han Dynasty- 80 B.C.