Ancient Chinese Dynasties Quiz

True or False: The Zhou dynasty and the Shang dynasty coexisted for many years before the Zhou conquered the Shang.

• True

• False

Describe how the Zhou military was organized.

Answer explanation

The Zhou army was split into two major sections and frequently roamed the countryside to protect people and their land. Zhou kings also took place in their armies by marching into battle with them.

Name 2 achievements that were made during the Zhou dynasty AND explain why they are important.

Answer explanation

Iron-tipped plows made farming more efficient and greatly increased crop yields. Too, iron-bladed tomahawks, swords, armor, and helmets became very popular among the military. The invention of the compass and the popular children's toy, the kite. The Zhou also created intricate irrigation systems that helped supply crops with water. Zhou historians created some of the first geographical maps of China. Primarily a farming civilization, the Zhou understood the importance of fertilizer to improve crop yields. They also experimented with herbal pesticides to keep away bugs and animals.

Explain how the Qin dynasty eventually conquered the Zhou dynasty.

Answer explanation

The Zhou dynasty fell in 256 BCE to the state of Qin, one of the territories of the Zhou dynasty. By the 4th century BCE, the Qin state had reformed their government based on the teachings of Hanfeizi, the founder of Legalism. According to the philosophy, the Qin posted its laws, enforced them with harsh punishments, and did not make exceptions for anyone. This strong government led to the Qin becoming more powerful than the Zhou, and by 256 BCE the Qin established their rule throughout China.

What is one word you can come up with to describe the Zhou dynasty? Explain why you chose that word.

How long did the Qin dynasty last?

• 220 years

• 5 years

• 14 months

• 14 years

How did Emperor Qin’s subjects (people he ruled over) feel about him? Why do you think they felt this way?

Answer explanation

The Qin dynasty only had one ruler, Emperor Qin, and he is often remembered for his tyrannic and cruel nature- which led him to be feared by his subjects.

Which Ancient Chinese philosophy did the Qin base its government on?

• Confucianism

• Daoism

• Legalism

Explain the events that led to the fall of the Qin dynasty. Which dynasty took over after the fact?

Name 2 achievements that were made during the Shang dynasty AND explain why they are important.