The Zhou Dynasty ruled China from 1046 BCE to 221 BCE and was divided into three periods. During the Western Zhou Period the Zhou replaced the Shang Dynasty but gradually lost control of the kingdom. In the Spring and Autumn Period rebel nobles fought against the king. Finally, the Warring States Period saw the nobles warring against each other as nearly 200 states broke off and fought for power.

1. The Zhou Dynasty

2. Zhou Dynasty – 3 Periods
• The Western Zhou Period (1046BCE–771BCE)
– Zhou replace Shang Dynasty
– Zhou Dynasty gradually lost control of kingdom
• The Spring and Autumn Period (771BCE–
481BCE)
– also known as Eastern Zhou Period
– Nobles rebelled against the king
• The Warring States Period (481BCE–221BCE)
– Nobles fought each other

5. Zhou Government
Structure
King gives land to the Lords
Lords preform military
service
Lords protect the Peasants
Peasants work the farmland
& service Nobles

6. Zhou Accomplishments
• Huge public works, new dikes, dams and
canals, better agriculture, transportation,
and communication
• Civilization grew, more people than
anywhere else

7. Road to Chaos
• Invasions from central Asia (Warring States)
• Nearly 200 Lords began fighting against each
other
• They lacked loyalty to anyone but themselves
• States would make alliances but betray each
other
• States would use bribes of money or silk or
dancing girls to win allies
• Princesses were sent as wives or hostages were
exchanged
• Chaos began to reign
• Ruling system crumbled as the Lords began
declaring themselves kings of seven Kingdoms