The Geography of Ancient China The climate in China is varied. The North China Plain has a dry climate, while southeastern China experiences heavy spring and summer rains from monsoons. Rivers, such as the Huang, often flooded the land, bringing fertile topsoil and sometimes cutting a new path through villages. Dikes helped to control the flooding, up to a point. 1 of 4 Ancient China Section 1: The Geography of China’s River Valleys

Early Civilization in China The first civilization in China was that of the Shang. They created a writing system and excelled in bronze work. The Zhou were neighbors of the Shang and came to rule ancient China for nearly 1,000 years, starting around 1122 B.C. The Chinese believed in the Mandate of Heaven, or a destiny to rule. 2 of 4 Ancient China Section 1: The Geography of China’s River Valleys

The Importance of the Family At the center of Chinese society was the family. Many generations lived together. The oldest male held the highest authority, and women held a lower status than men. The practice of using a family name, first, along with a second, personal name came into being in the 300s B.C. and shows the importance of family. 3 of 4 Ancient China Section 1: The Geography of China’s River Valleys Section Reading Support Transparency

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