Ancient China was considered the longest lasting civilizations in the world. The beginnings of Ancient China can be established more than 5,000 years ago.
It is widely accepted that the first Chinese civilization began in the Yellow River region of Northern China at around the 3rd and 2nd millennia B.C.E.
In old times, the Yellow River region provided the farmers with a loess soil that helped them grow millet. Millet is a highly nutritious food that became the main crop of Northern China.
Other than the Yellow River, several scholars also believed that the Yangtze valley also served as a home for the Ancient Chinese civilization.
Similar to the Yellow River, the Yangtze River also enabled Ancient Chinese to grow rice due to its wet yet warm climate.
It is believed that rice was first grown in the area at around 5,000 B.C.E. before it severely expanded to Southeast Asia and Southern China.
Apart from the Yellow and Yangtze Rivers, Ancient Chinese was also rich with iconic geographical features which included coastlands, deserts, and mountain ranges.
By the same token, China was also ruled by royal families that were called dynasties.
The first Chinese dynasty was the Xia dynasty which began sometime around 2070 to 1060 B.C.E.
It is, however, essential to note that the Xia dynasty was considered by everyone as a myth until the excavations performed during the 1960s and 1970s.
In addition, Ancient Chinese civilization is also the longest lasting commonwealth in history.
Several scholars said that the empire started during the Qin dynasty under the leadership of Emperor Qin.
It is believed that Emperor Qin tried to unite China under one rule in 221 B.C.E. Subsequently, Emperors continued to become the rulers of China for the next two millennia.
Ancient Chinese also developed three main philosophies or religions specifically Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.
These concepts left a massive impact on the way people lived and are sometimes referred to as the three ways. Moreover, religion, culture, and art were closely linked together during ancient times.
Interesting Facts about Ancient Chinese Civilization
- The Mongols were considered as the great enemy of Ancient Chinese civilization. The Chinese used to build walls to prevent the Mongols from invading their cities.
- Ancient Chinese civilization adopted the feudal system as a form of government. Nonetheless, civil service officials later took over the cities and enforced laws as well as collected taxes. To become an official, one should pass an exam.
- The Mongols were able to conquer China and established their dynasty which is called as the Yuan dynasty.
- In Ancient China, the Dragon is often referred to as a symbol of power, good luck, and strength. In addition, it also represented as a symbol of an Emperor.
- The major dynasties that ruled Ancient China included the Xia dynasty, the Shang dynasty, the Zhou dynasty, the Qin dynasty, the Han dynasty, the Sui dynasty, and the Ming dynasty among others.
- Ancient Chinese civilization also took great pride in their artworks. Its art primarily focuses on the three perfections which include calligraphy, painting, and poetry.
- The Yellow River and the Yangtze River assumed critical parts of Ancient Chinese civilization. At present, the Yangtze River is considered as the third longest river in the world while the Yellow River is ranked seventh.
- The last dynasty of Ancient Chinese Civilization was the Qing dynasty.
Who was the first Emperor of Ancient China?
The first Emperor of China was Emperor Qin.
When did the Qing dynasty end?
The Qing dynasty started from 1636 and ended in 1912.
What was the biggest festival of Ancient China civilization?
The New Year was considered as the largest festival of Ancient China.
Who is the last Emperor of Ancient China?
The last Emperor of China was Emperor Puyi.
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