What was the achievement which helped contribute to the downfall of the Zhou? Was it Confucianism or iron metalworking?
The achievement that contributed to the downfall of the Zhou Dynasty was iron metalworking, not Confucianism. The Zhou Dynasty, which lasted from around 1046 BCE to 256 BCE, witnessed advancements in bronze metalworking during its early period. However, it was the development and widespread adoption of iron tools and weapons during the Zhou Dynasty that ultimately led to its downfall.
The Zhou Dynasty faced numerous challenges during its later years, including internal factionalism, regional power struggles, and invasion threats from nomadic tribes. One of the key factors in the decline of the dynasty was the diffusion of iron technology. The increasing availability of iron tools and weapons revolutionized agricultural practices and warfare techniques, making it easier for smaller states and ambitious warlords to challenge the central authority of the Zhou Dynasty.
As iron metalworking spread throughout ancient China, regional powers began to emerge and assert their dominance. This development led to the fragmentation of the Zhou Dynasty and the rise of multiple competing states, marking the beginning of the Warring States period (475 BCE to 221 BCE). The Warring States period saw continuous warfare, political instability, and eventually led to the establishment of the Qin Dynasty, which unified China in 221 BCE.