An ancient Chinese belief and philosophical idea that tiān (heaven) granted emperors the right to rule based on their ability to govern well and fairly.

Is an important political theory in Chinese history. According to this theory, every dynasty goes through a culture cycle. 1. A new ruler unites China, founds a new dynasty, and gains the Mandate of Heaven.

A Chinese philosophical system based on filial piety and the 5 basic relationships as defined by the Chinese philosopher Confucius (551–479 BCE).

Respect for one's father, elders, and ancestors. Common in Confucianism.

A philosophical, ethical, and religious tradition in China that emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao (Dao) (way) Created by Laozi.

This symbol represents opposite energies that can't exist without each other. The black curve , with its white dot, stands for femininity, cold, night, matter, softness and passivity, while the white curve represents masculinity, spirit, heat, day, hardness and activity.

An examination system that was used to fill positions in the Chinese government. (bureaucracy) Students would take a test on Confucian and other Chinese learning. Those who passed gained positions in the government. Merit based system vs hereditary.

The first dynasty in traditional Chinese history. Most consider it to be mythical and not historical. ( c. 2070 – c. 1600 BC)

A legendary ruler in ancient China famed for his introduction of flood control, inaugurating dynastic rule in China by founding the Xia Dynasty

The historical Chinese Dynasty. (1760 to 1520 bce) known for oracle bones and early work with bronze. Lived along the Yellow River (Huang He)

Are pieces of turtle shell or bone, which were used for a form of divination (fortune telling) in ancient Shang China.

He conquered all other Warring States and united China in 221 BC. He ruled as the First Emperor of the Qin dynasty. He was a harsh ruler who used Legalism (Terra Cotta soliders, Great Wall, China is named after him) QIN is pronounced CHIN.

A series of fortifications made of stone, brick, wood, and other material built along an east-to-west line across the historical northern borders of China. Used to protect the Chinese states and empires against the raids and invasions of the Mongols.

An ancient network of trade routes that brought goods and ideas from China and India to people living around the Mediterranean Sea. It gets its name from the lucrative trade in Chinese silk carried out along its length. This began during the Han dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE).