1. Ancient China Early civilization grew up along the banks of the Yellow River The Xia were the first dynasty according to tradition There were 3 cultural heroes who introduced the arts of civilization to the early Chinese There were 3 sages who helped govern early China

2. Shang Dynasty 1766-1050 BC Prized bronze above gold Ruled by a king but divided into city-states Aristocracy controlled bronze production Written language preserved on oracle bones Shang Ti, Lord on High, ruled over gods of the elements

3. The Chou Dynasty 1050-401BC Kept some Shang policies Mandate of Heaven Two capitals Laid basis for ethics, philosophy, culture, and morals

4. Chou Dynasty Lao Tzu Taoism