The Zhou Dynasty (1046-256 BCE) was among the most culturally significant of the early Chinese dynasties and the longest lasting of any in China's history, divided into two periods: Western Zhou (1046-771 BCE) and Eastern Zhou (771-256 BCE). It followed the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600-1046 BCE), and preceded the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BCE, pronounced “chin”) which gave China its name.
More about: Zhou DynastyDefinition
Timeline
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1046 BCE - 771 BCEWestern Zhou dynasty replaces the Shang Dynasty in China.
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841 BCE - 828 BCEGonghe Regency in the Western Zhou Dynasty. During this period, King Li of Zhou was exiled and the country was ruled by two dukes.
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772 BCE - 476 BCEThe Spring and Autumn Period in China.
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771 BCE - 256 BCEEastern Zhou Dynasty in China.
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771 BCEFollowing nomadic attacks in the west, the Chinese Zhou dynasty moves its capital east to Luoyang. Beginning of Eastern Zhou Period.
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551 BCE - 479 BCELife of Confucius.
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c. 500 BCEProbable life of the Chinese philosopher Lao-Tzu, founder of Taoism and author of the Tao-Te-Ching.
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c. 481 BCE - 221 BCEWarring States Period in China.
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364 BCEDuke Xin, ruler of Qin, is awarded the title of Hegemon by the Zhou state.
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343 BCEXiao, ruler of Qin, is awarded the title of Hegemon by the Zhou state.
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326 BCEHuiwen, ruler of Qin, is awarded royal status by the Zhou state.
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256 BCEThe army of the state of Qin captures the city of Chengzhou and the last Zhou ruler, King Nan, is killed. End of the Zhou Dynasty.
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256 BCEThe Qin absorbs the remains of the Zhou state.
