Shang Dynasty (c.1600-1046BC)
The Shang dynasty is the first dynasty where both written and archaeological evidence have been discovered, and while evidence of a possible Xia predecessor dynasty does exist, the Shang is considered to be the beginning of China's long-lasting imperialism.
Village Life
As time progressed, there was less need for everyone to farm and hunt, so many people began to make tools and items for sale. Metallurgists made bronze-ware with intricate designs and jade-carvers made ceremonial weaponry for funerals.
The set of photographs to the right depict examples of the types of bronze-ware artisans made in Shang China. |
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Aside from the nobility and women, everyone had equal rights. Everyone was expected to be an active member of society and make their way by a trade.
The Shang Kings
By c.1765 BC, the Shang family had installed itself as the kingship of China. He lived a life of luxury in his palace and was a warrior king who led his people in battle on his war chariot. He was also a leader in peacetime and was meant to be a role model to his people in terms of politics and religion. Whenever a king died, his body was placed in a large pit along with his chariot, horses, a hoard of treasure, and sometimes even servants.
The last Shang king was known as Di Xin (sometimes Shang Zhou). According to legend, he was a benevolent king until he was corrupted by his wife Daji, after which he began to act indignantly and cared little for his people. This made it easy for the Zhou to conquer. In c.1046 BC, the Zhou and Shang armies fought at the Battle of Muye, which resulted in the end of the Shang dynasty and the start of the Zhou.