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The borders of the Xia Dynasty Image from: Museo Cinese Parma

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What was the Xia Dynasty?

It is the first known dynasty in ancient China. This clan came to power because Da Yu, of the Xia clan, saved the people from a flooding river.  After his heroics, the people of the tribes decided to make him their ruler.

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The borders of the Shang Dynasty Image from: Museo Cinese Parma

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What was the Shang Dynasty?

The Shang Dynasty came to power after the assassination of the last ruler of the Xia Dynasty.  The Shang were cruel and, to this day, are still known for their cruelty. The Shang engaged in trade and war and kept records in oracle bones. The Shang went through many rulers, one of them being Xiao Jin who was the 7th ruler.

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The borders of the Zhou Dynasty Image from: Ancient World History

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What was the Zhou Dynasty?

The Zhou Dynasty was a time when China had its states that were always at war with each other. This dynasty was the longest in Chinese history and is considered the most important dynasty. They created new religions such as legalism and Moism. The Zhou Dynasty came to power when the clan rose in power and eventually began conflict with the Shang. The ruler of the Shang was eventually assassinated and the Zhou rose to power.

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The borders of the Qin Dynasty Image from: Museo Cinese Parma

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What was the Qin Dynasty?

During the Qin Dynasty, the name "China" was officially given to the country.  This dynasty started when Qin Shihuang united all the states and dismissed all that happened with them. Emperor Qin ordered all books that contained what happened with the individual states to be burned and expected scholars. After Qin passed away, China fell into chaos which later on came to the creation of the Han Dynasty.

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The borders of the Han Dynasty Image from: Sutori

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What was the Han Dynasty?

During the Han Dynasty, China was fully united for the first time and the Silk Road was opened. The Han came to power after uniting the people after the Qin dynasty fell into chaos. The Han dynasty was divided into two periods, the Western Han and the Eastern Han.