Chinese Dynasties
5,000 Years of Imperial Rule
Journey through the rise and fall of China's greatest dynasties. Each empire brought unique achievements, innovations, and stories that continue to shape Chinese civilization today.
Dynastic Timeline
Explore each dynasty's key achievements, notable rulers, and lasting legacy
夏朝 (Xià Cháo)
c. 2070-1600 BCECapital: Yangcheng, Anyi, Zhenxun
Founded by Yu the Great (大禹 Dà Yǔ)
Key Achievements:
- •First hereditary dynasty in Chinese history
- •Established concept of dynastic succession
- •Bronze Age civilization development
Notable Rulers:
Yu the GreatQi of XiaJie of Xia
商朝 (Shāng Cháo)
c. 1600-1046 BCECapital: Bo, Ao, Yin (Anyang)
Founded by Tang of Shang (商汤 Shāng Tāng)
Key Achievements:
- •Centralized monarchy with divine king concept
- •Administrative bureaucracy with specialized officials
- •Oracle bone script - earliest confirmed Chinese writing system
Notable Rulers:
Tang of ShangPan GengWu Ding
周朝 (Zhōu Cháo)
1046-256 BCECapital: Hao (Western Zhou), Luoyang (Eastern Zhou)
Founded by King Wu of Zhou (周武王 Zhōu Wǔ Wáng)
Key Achievements:
- •Mandate of Heaven concept - divine sanction for legitimate rule
- •Feudal system with decentralized fiefs and vassal relationships
- •I Ching (Book of Changes) - foundational philosophical text
Notable Rulers:
King Wen of ZhouKing Wu of ZhouDuke of Zhou
Key Achievements:
- •First unified Chinese empire under single ruler
- •Abolished feudal system and created centralized bureaucracy
- •Standardized Chinese writing system (Small Seal Script)
Notable Rulers:
Qin Shi HuangQin Er Shi