The document discusses the river valley dynasties in ancient China, highlighting the geography of major rivers and environmental regions, social classes structured around nobles and peasants, and religious beliefs that centered on family ancestors and communication with gods through oracle bones. Writing developed using complex characters to represent ideas, while technology included weapons, coins, and artistic works made from bronze, iron, and silk.

1. River Valley Dynasties in China

2. Geography Huang He and Yangtze rivers Plateau of Tibet Gobi Desert Mongolian Plateau Himalaya Mountains Environmental Challenges Flooding of Huang He Isolation Settlements Walled cities, fancy palaces Timber framed homes in city Social Classes Warrior nobles and peasants Role of Family Central authority in society Elders had privilege, women inferior

3. Religious Beliefs Spirits of family ancestors Supreme and lesser gods Used oracle bones to “talk” to gods Writing System Many complex characters, did “unify” Each one represents and idea Technology Weapons Religious items, coins Bronze and iron Art Silk clothing