Ancient China developed major civilizations along river valleys like the Yellow River and Yangtze River. Geographic isolation led the Chinese to believe they were the center of the world. Early dynasties like the Shang and Zhou established social hierarchies and developed writing. The Qin dynasty unified China and built infrastructure like the Great Wall. Subsequent dynasties like the Han expanded the empire and implemented civil service exams. The Tang and Song dynasties represented a cultural golden age with advances in technology, art, and education. China's empires were later conquered by Mongol invaders.

1. Ancient China The Middle Kingdom

3. Geographic Barriers of China

4. Population Density of China

10. Great Wall of China

15. Empires of Ancient China

16. The Silk Road – strategic trade and cultural transmission route that linked China to the rest of Asia, Africa and Europe

18. Mongol Empire