1. Geography of China

2. 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

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

4. 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

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

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

7. 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

9. 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.