Zhou Dynasty

Zhou Dynasty

The Zhou dynasty over threw the Shang in the 11th century BCE, claiming the Shang had lost the Mandate of Heaven.The Zhou dynasty had kept political structures and religious practices similar to the Shang dynasty, however it put a stop to human scarifice and ritual suicide.The Zhou Dynasty went through two different capital changes, at first being centered to the west of China near current day Xi'an, then later to the east once the last king of the western half was killed by his own family.The Warring States took place during the Zhou Dynasty resulting in thousands being killed over political control of the land. However it was also the time were Confucius and the Legalists begun to spread their ways, which would later influnce all future dynastys of China.

Map of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty

Map of the Western Zhou Dynasty

Feudalism and its EffectsFeudalism in the Zhou territory was

very similar to that in Medieval Europe where the King or Emperor would loan out land to nobles and lords in exchange for loyalty and

military support. Each lord would also protect those who lived on their land. The Zhou gained more control as the

small towns expanded into cities. Although the Zhou were becoming more powerful, the nobles and lords became less reliant on the King and

started to fight amongst themselves for wealth and territory.

The Warring StatesThe Zhou ruled peacefully for about 300 years until they could no longer control the nobles and lords. They took every opportunity to start a fight. States began to develop with warlords declaring to be the King of their

territory. The states began to fight for land. Peasants were hired to do the dirty work. New advances, like the crossbow, came into play. The Zhou attempted

to keep control from Luoyang after the city of Hao was taken over and the monarch was killed. They were unsuccessful and the Zhou empire weakened

during this period of devastation.

Confucianism

Social order, harmony, and good government were the main aspects of family realtionships.Respect for parents and elders is important and well thought of in well ordered society.Education is important both to welfare of the individual and to society

Daoism

The natural order is more important than social order; nature is more importantA universal force guides all things.Humans are unhappy living with material possessions and should live simply and in harmony with natureA mysterious man by the name of Lao Zi was said to have created Daoism, however it is not known when he was alive, when he died, or if he even existed at all.

Daoism according to Lao Tzu

Legalism

A highly effecient and powerful government is the key to social order.Punishments are useful to maintain social order.Thinkers and their ideas should be strictly controlled by the government.