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Zhou Dynasty

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description Zhou Dynasty Overview

The Zhou Dynasty was a Chinese imperial dynasty that ruled from approximately 1046 BC to 256 BC, making it the longest-lasting dynasty in Chinese history. It is divided into the Western Zhou and the Eastern Zhou periods, the latter of which encompasses the Spring and Autumn and Warring States eras. The state introduced the concept of the Mandate of Heaven, a philosophical principle used to justify political power based on a ruler's moral legitimacy. The later era of the dynasty was a time of major intellectual development, producing foundational philosophies such as Confucianism and Daoism.

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When did the Zhou Dynasty begin ruling China?

The Zhou Dynasty began ruling China around 1046 BC after overthrowing the Shang Dynasty. It went on to become the longest-lasting dynasty in all of Chinese history, enduring for nearly eight centuries.

What was the Mandate of Heaven established by the Zhou?

The Mandate of Heaven was a political and religious ideology created by the Zhou Dynasty to justify their conquest of the Shang. It posited that the gods would only allow a regime to rule as long as its leaders remained just and virtuous.

What important philosophies originated during the Zhou Dynasty?

The Zhou Dynasty period saw the birth of foundational Chinese philosophies, most notably Confucianism and Daoism. These schools of thought emerged heavily during the later Eastern Zhou period, specifically in the Spring and Autumn and Warring States eras.

How is the history of the Zhou Dynasty divided?

Historians divide the dynasty into the Western Zhou and the Eastern Zhou periods. The era transitioned to the Eastern Zhou in 770 BC when the royal capital was moved east to Luoyang following an invasion.

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