The zhou dynasty quick check
The Zhou Dynasty, also known as the Chou Dynasty, was a Chinese dynasty that ruled from 1046 BC to 256 BC. It is divided into two periods: the Western Zhou, which lasted from 1046 BC to 771 BC, and the Eastern Zhou, which lasted from 770 BC to 256 BC.
During the Zhou Dynasty, China saw significant developments in politics, economy, and culture. The ruling system of the Zhou Dynasty was feudalism, with the king as the central authority and various regional lords who were granted land and power in exchange for loyalty and military service. This system of government is often referred to as the "Feudal System of Zhou."
The Zhou Dynasty is famous for its emphasis on the "Mandate of Heaven" (Tianming), which is the belief that the ruling dynasty had the divine approval to govern. According to this belief, a dynasty could only maintain its hold on power as long as it ruled virtuously and justly. If a dynasty became corrupt or failed to rule properly, it was believed that it would lose the "Mandate of Heaven," and a new dynasty would rise to power.
The Zhou Dynasty also witnessed the development and expansion of Chinese writing, literature, and philosophy. Many important texts, such as the Book of Songs (Shi Jing), the Book of Documents (Shu Jing), and the Book of Changes (Yi Jing), were compiled during this period. Important philosophers, such as Confucius and Laozi, also lived during the Zhou Dynasty and left a lasting impact on Chinese thought and culture.
Despite its cultural achievements, the Zhou Dynasty faced internal conflicts and external threats. The Western Zhou Dynasty ended in 771 BC when it was attacked by nomadic tribes, leading to the establishment of the Eastern Zhou Dynasty. The Eastern Zhou Dynasty is further divided into the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC) and the Warring States Period (475-221 BC), during which China was divided into numerous small states that constantly fought for supremacy.
Overall, the Zhou Dynasty played a crucial role in shaping Chinese history and culture, and its legacy continues to influence China to this day.