China became the largest and most populous country in Asia. IT has developed a unique culture by being isolated and having little contact with other civilizations. Over time, its methods of production and system of government here were very advanced for the time. China's history is illustrated by the rule of several different dynasties, their schools of thought and religion, and the vast spread of their culture to surrounding countries. Throughout Chinese history, many dynasties have had their turn to rule this growing country. The Shang dynasty was the first to rule during the Bronze Age. Bronze was used more for ritual objects like goblets, steamboats, and cauldrons than for warfare. They ruled for over two centuries when they were defeated by the Zhou. Sacrificing to their ancestors was something the Zhou and the Shang had in common. In the Zhou period, handed down texts such as the Book of Documents first existed. The early Zhou rulers established a decentralized feudal system instead of trying to rule all their territories directly. Trusted relatives and subordinates ruled these territories and positions became hereditary, allowing them to pass the position to their sons. Over time, loyalties became more obscure and lords became too powerful and no longer obeyed the king. An alliance of the Rong tribesmen killed King Zhou and the Zhou dynasty was unable to gain full control of its vassals, again ushering China into what is known as the Warring States period. The states fought and destroyed each other and were at constant war for a long time before the Qin finally took power. This king invented the title "emperor" because "king" was quite tall. He also adopted the legal system of paper provinces, and appointing governors to collect taxes from them were just some of the things they got from China. China was the most populous country of this era and greatly influenced all surrounding countries. Many different dynasties have ruled China throughout history, and each has had its own impact on China. Each ruler had their own beliefs and ways of governing that would be imposed on the people. Even the countries around China were affected when the Chinese armies conquered them and settled their armies in their countries. With a hugely growing population, China has become the largest country and an economic leader in the world. As China grew throughout history, many schools of thought were introduced. Much of Chinese culture and language has spread to surrounding countries and even Japan. Works Cited History of World Societies