Essential Question:How does the philosophy of a government
impact the way a society operates?
I can explain the role of government in Ancient China.
• 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- 1122 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.
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.
Imagine that a time machine takes you back
to one of the dynasties of Ancient China.
Write what you experienced on your
visit.
Remember to include the name of the dynasty you
visited!