Dynasties | Early Dynasties 2200-221BC

The dynasties that preceded the formation of the Qin in 221BC have much less historical documentation and represent a smaller geographic area. Chinese civilization emerged principally in the Yellow and Yangzi rivers. Chinese are proud of the 5,000 years of unbroken civilization which is unique in the world.

The Shang dynasty are famous for their skills in casting elaborate bronze vessels and artifacts. It is in this period that the Chinese characters were developed and used on 'oracle bones' and in books made of bamboo strips. The Zhou dynasty saw the development of large planned cities.

During the Warring States, the country broke up into small precarious feudal states constantly fought with each other. It was at this time that Confucius (Kongfu Zi)and Lao Tse (Lao Zi) lived. Indeed, the time is known for the 'hundred schools' of philosophers. The knowledge of what went on those days is quite incredible particularly when you compare the big blank picture of life in the U.K. and much of Europe at this time. Eventually the 'legalist' philosophy won out and the small state of Qin took over the other small states that made up China.