Zhou dynasty

The Zhou dynasty (1046–256 BC) was the longest dynasty in Chinese history. It justified rule with the 'Mandate of Heaven' idea, and its later centuries produced Confucius and the Hundred Schools of Thought.

Overview

Under the Western Zhou (1046–771 BC), with its capital near modern Xi’an, kings enfeoffed relatives and allies as regional lords. After the capital fell in 771 BC, the court moved east to Luoyi (Luoyang), beginning the Eastern Zhou (770–256 BC).

Key developments

The Eastern Zhou divides into the Spring and Autumn period (770–476 BC) and the Warring States period (475–221 BC), when royal authority was nominal and powerful states fought for supremacy. Iron tools spread, and Confucius and the Hundred Schools of Thought date to this era.

End and transition

Qin extinguished the Zhou royal house in 256 BC and went on to unify China in 221 BC.

Overview

Key developments

End and transition

Events

People