Geography of China

Development of Chinese Culture Shang Dynasty: the first family of rulers to leave written records The Chinese viewed their culture as superior to others and saw themselves as the center of the civilized world This led them to refer to China as the Middle Kingdom

Development of Chinese Culture China’s social class system divided nobles and peasants

Development of Chinese Culture The family was a central part of Chinese society Respect for parents was the most important virtue The family was also important to Chinese religious beliefs They believed that their ancestors’ spirits could bring good or bad fortune to living family members

Development of Chinese Culture Chinese priests used oracle bones to ask questions to the gods

Development of Chinese Culture China’s written language was oracle bone script

The Zhou Dynasty The Zhou Dynasty conquered the Shang Dynasty and justified their rule by saying that the gods gave them the power to rule The Mandate of Heaven- divine approval to rule Dynastic Cycle- the pattern of rising, declining, and replacement of dynasties in China

The Zhou Dynasty Achievements Roads and canals were built to stimulate trade and agriculture. Coined money was introduced, which further improved trade. Blast furnaces that produced cast iron were developed.