Political history of ancient China :
We can understand the political history of ancient China, by dividing it into the following four categories :
(a) Shang dynasty : This is the oldest Chinese dynasty which ruled China from 1766 BC to 1122 BC. Archaeological evidence shows that in the 14th century BC, Shang dynasty people had developed a high level of culture. It seems that Shang were lagging behind in the development of culture of the people. So the main task of the Shang dynasty’s king was to protect their subjects from the more cultured people of neighbouring areas. There were 28 kings in the Shang dynasty but the neighbouring Chau dynasty defeated the Shang dynasty.
(b) Chau-dynasty: The rulers of this dynasty ruled China from 1122 to 225 BC. This period is called the golden age of China’s history. Thinkers such as Laotse and Confucius lived in this era. During this dynasty’s reign many such works came into existance, due to which this lineage became immortal in history, like metals, circulation of coins, development of banking system, land reform, paper printing and invention of gun powder, art skills and knowledge, etc.
(c) Chin dynasty : The progress and prosperity of China began in the reign of this dynasty. Roads were constructed in every direction during the reign of this dynasty, so that the army could be sent anywhere, whenever needed. The huge Chinese wall was built to stop the invasion of the Hunas by the rulers of this dynasty. This wall is considered as one of the seven wonders of the world due to its vastness and artistry. Huang was the ruler of this dynasty who was an accomplished administrator and a great warrior.
(d) Han dynasty : The rulers of Han dynasty in China strengthened the regime and ended the feudal system for the first time in the world. Competitive exmaminations for appointment in administrative services were also held during this period. The trade route famously known as “Silk route was developed in the time of the ruler of this lineage to promote trade relations between China and Europe.
The rich political history of ancient China revolves around these four dynasties. After this chaos spread across China. Although, in 618 CE, Kaotse established the Tang dynasty and in 690 CE Chao Rung Ching laid the foundation of the Shung dynasty.
