c. 16th century BCE – c. 11th century BCE
The Shang is the earliest Chinese dynasty confirmed by archaeology, leaving oracle-bone script and sophisticated bronzes.
Approximate date.
King Wu of Zhou defeats the last Shang king, founding the Zhou, the longest-lasting dynasty in Chinese history.
After the sack of Haojing, the Zhou court relocates to Luoyi, and royal power declines relative to the feudal states.
Confucius, founder of Confucianism, is born in the state of Lu; his teachings shape East Asian culture for over two millennia.
Seven major states vie for supremacy for over two centuries, an era that also sees the flourishing of the Hundred Schools of Thought.
The state of Qin conquers its rivals, ending the Warring States period; Ying Zheng proclaims himself the First Emperor.
Under Qin Shi Huang, general Meng Tian connects and extends northern walls as a defence against the Xiongnu.