Culture & Society - The History of Chinese Culture

The History of Chinese Culture

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The Chinese invented ink in 2697 BC.

bottle of ink image by Alfonso d'Agostino from Fotolia.com

China is one of the world's oldest civilizations. Its roots can be firmly traced back to early Neolithic societies. China has been through a number of different political dynasties and structures throughout its existence.

Neolithic China

1. The Yangshao and the Lungshan tribes dominated China's Neolithic period beginning around 4,000 BC. The Yangshao lived in the mountains of northern and western China, while the Lungshan lived in eastern China. Silk production began with the Yangshao. The Yangshao also created kiln-fired painted pottery embellished with geometric designs, while the Lungshan created polished, unpainted black pottery.

Dynastic Period

2. A succession of dynasties ruled China for most of its recorded history. The Xia dynasty came to power around 2200 BC, while Qing, the last dynasty, ended in 1911. The Chinese implemented standardized measurements, expanded their territories, built the Great Wall of China, invented printing and paper money, and developed many important technological advances during the dynastic period.

Modern China

3. China descended into political chaos after its involvement in the first and second World Wars, according to PBS. In 1949 Mao Zedong established communism in China. The Chinese system as of 2010 is a blend of communist philosophies and leanings toward western capitalism