Shang Dynasty Insights Through Time and Artifacts

Ingrid from Twinkle introduces the Shang Dynasty, one of China's earliest recorded dynasties, ruling from 1600 BC to 1046 BC. The video covers the dynasty's achievements in astrology, mathematics, and bronze work, highlighting its cultural and technological advancements. It discusses the social structure, focusing on male succession and ancestor worship. The economy is explored through the use of cowrie shells as currency, and the harsh living conditions of peasants are noted. The video concludes with the decline of the Shang Dynasty due to a cruel leader, and offers resources for further learning.

What is a dynasty?

• A cultural movement

• A period of economic prosperity

• A succession of rulers from the same family

• A type of government

When did the Shang Dynasty rule?

• 1000 BC to 500 BC

• 500 BC to 1 AD

• 1600 BC to 1046 BC

• 2000 BC to 1500 BC

What material was prominently used during the Shang Dynasty for making tools and weapons?

• Iron

• Silver

• Gold

• Bronze

What did the inscriptions on tortoise shells reveal about the Shang Dynasty?

• They traded with Europe

• They practiced agriculture

• They understood astrology and mathematics

• They had a written language

How many kings ruled during the Shang Dynasty?

• About 50

• About 20

• About 10

• About 29 or 30

Who was believed to have a special connection with the god Shang Di?

• The peasants

• The soldiers

• The king

• The queen

What was used as currency during the Shang Dynasty?

• Silver pieces

• Cowrie shells

• Bronze bars

• Gold coins

What does the condition of the skeletons of peasants suggest about their living conditions?

• They had access to education

• They were often malnourished

• They were well-nourished

• They lived in luxury

What led to the end of the Shang Dynasty?

• A natural disaster

• A foreign invasion

• The cruelty of the final leader

• Economic collapse

In what year did the Shang Dynasty come to an end?

• 1500 BC

• 1200 BC

• 1046 BC

• 800 BC