The Zhou Dynasty came into power in China in 1050 BC after defeating the previous Shang Dynasty. The Zhou claimed they had the Mandate of Heaven to rule. The Zhou Dynasty went on to last for over 800 years, the longest ruling dynasty in Chinese history. It was divided into the Western Zhou period focused on farming and the Eastern Zhou period known as a golden age of advancements. However, the Zhou power weakened over time and collapsed in 771 BC, beginning a period of warfare and division in China.

1. The Zhou Dynasty The Second Dynasty of China

2. The Zhou Dynasty The Shang Dynasty

4. The Zhou Comes into Power The Zhou people moved East and came into Contact with the Shang Dynasty 1150 B.C. Zhou attacked the Shang Dynasty.

5. Zhou Comes into Power 1050 B.C. Zhou ruler, King Wu , claimed victory. Zhou claimed Heaven ordered them to defeat the Shang—Winning the Mandate of Heaven. Longest Dynasty of China: 800 years

6. Western Zhou Farming under the Zhou:

7. Important to the Zhou…

8. Eastern Zhou Known as the “Golden Age”: many advancements made during this period such as…

9. Zhou Division of Classes Word Bank: King, Peasants, Nobles Farm and Serve Nobles Military Service for King Give Land to Nobles Protect the Peasants

10. Zhou Division of Classes

11. Decline of the Zhou 771 B.C. people of the Zhou feared an attack from invaders. Legend of King You. Zhou had to move and its power was weakened. Collapse of Zhou marked beginning of great warfare in China.