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!