China (c.2070 BCE -)
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A China (c.2070 BCE -) is a civilization that has evolved through a succession of dynasties.
- Context:
- It can (typically) be associated with China Demographics.
- It can (typically) be recognized for its contributions to world history, including inventions like paper, gunpowder, and the compass.
- It can (often) exhibit a rich philosophical heritage with systems like Confucianism, Daoism, and Legalism shaping its culture and governance.
- It can range from periods of unified imperial rule to times of fragmentation and conflict, reflecting the dynamic nature of its political landscape.
- It can maintain a significant influence on East Asian culture and beyond, through both historical interactions and contemporary global presence.
- It can feature a unique combination of traditional practices and modern technological advancements, encapsulating the juxtaposition of old and new in its society.
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- Example(s):
- Xia Dynasty (c. 2070-1600 BCE) - Traditionally considered the first dynasty in Chinese history, though it is semi-legendary. Xia marked the transition from the tribal society of the Neolithic age to a more centralized form of government.
- Shang Dynasty (c. 1600-1046 BCE) - Known for its advances in metallurgy, astronomy, and art. It's the first Chinese dynasty confirmed by archaeological evidence, and it established patterns of Chinese culture that can be traced to the present.
- Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BCE) - The longest-lasting of China's dynasties, which saw the initial flourishing of Chinese philosophy, including Confucianism and Daoism during the later periods known as the Spring and Autumn period and the Warring States period.
- Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE) - Marked by the first unification of China under a single emperor, Qin Shi Huang, who also began the construction of the Great Wall and standardized scripts, weights, and measures.
- Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE) - A golden age that solidified many of the foundations of imperial China, including significant developments in art, culture, and technology along with expansion of the territory.
- Sui (581-618) and Tang Dynasties (618-907) - Known for major cultural flourishing and the introduction of Buddhism as a major influence. The Tang period in particular is often considered the high point in Chinese civilization.
- Song Dynasty (960-1279) - Noted for its rapid technological, economic, and cultural development, including the invention of gunpowder, printing, and advancements in navigation and architecture.
- Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) - Established by the Mongol conqueror Kublai Khan, it was marked by the unification of all China under foreign rule and significant cultural exchange between East and West.
- Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) - Known for its naval expeditions under Zheng He, the construction of the Forbidden City, and a flourishing of culture and arts.
- Qing Dynasty (1644-1912) - The last imperial dynasty, ruled by the Manchus, it saw the expansion of Chinese borders to its greatest extent and faced internal rebellion and external pressures leading to its downfall.
- Republic of China (1912-1949) - Established after the fall of the Qing Dynasty, it struggled with fragmentation, warlordism, and Japanese invasion before the mainland was overtaken by communist forces.
- People's Republic of China (1949-present) - Established by the Communist Party under Mao Zedong following a civil war, it is a socialist state that has seen extensive economic reforms since the 1980s and has become a global economic powerhouse.
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- Counter-Example(s):
- See: Confucianism, Great Wall of China, Silk Road, Cultural Revolution, Tiananmen Square.