Difficulty: Challenger (Level 2)
The Zhou dynasty was the longest-lasting dynasty in China, lasting from about 1046BC to 256BC.
It was divided into two parts: the Western Zhou and the Eastern Zhou.
The dynasty was led by the royal family named Ji. In total, 39 members of the Ji family ruled China during this time.
The three great philosophies
The Zhou dynasty marked the beginning of three major Chinese ways of thinking.
These schools of thought were Confucianism, Taoism and Legalism.
Confucianism emphasised harmony within society, respect for elders and justice.
Taoism promoted connection with the Tao – an invisible power that guides everything in the universe.
It helped many Chinese people find meaning and balance in their personal lives.
Legalism was important because it introduced the idea of the Mandate of Heaven. This meant that the Zhou rulers had the right to rule. People thought that humans are naturally bad and need strong leaders to control them.
These beliefs still influence how governing methods and families work today.
Arrival of iron
The Iron Age started in the Zhou dynasty when people began to use iron instead of bronze for everyday things.
Ironworking became more popular, and furnaces were built to get iron from its ores.
This change affected farming and fighting. Farmers got stronger tools like sickles for cutting crops and hoes for digging. These iron tools made it easier and faster to farm.
Soldiers also had better weapons made of iron. These weapons were stronger and could be made in larger amounts than bronze ones, giving them an advantage in battles.
Major rulers
The Zhou dynasty had its roots in King Wen’s ambitions to conquer China, who is sometimes called the first epic hero of China as many poems were written in his praise.
His son, King Wu, started the dynasty by defeating the leaders of the Shang dynasty around 1046BC.
The Duke of Zhou set up the Mandate of Heaven and stabilised his control over the country.
Finally, the dynasty was brought to an end when King Nan was defeated in a war against the Qin state.
