China has a long and rich history spanning thousands of years. Some of the earliest dynasties include the Xia Dynasty around 2100 BC, noted for developing agriculture and early writing, and the Shang Dynasty from 1700-1100 BC, known for using oracle bones for divination. The Zhou Dynasty from 1100-221 BC saw the development of iron tools, money, and written laws. Confucius lived during this period and his teachings became China's dominant philosophy. Later dynasties like the Tang Dynasty from 618-907 AD and Han Dynasty from 206 BC - 220 AD were periods of cultural and economic prosperity, as well as influence on neighboring regions like Japan and introduction of Buddhism to China.