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1912 BCE
End of Chinese Dynasties
The end of Chinese Dynasties (where a clan rules an empire) marked the beginning of the modern era, caused by the Xinhai revolution led by Sun Yat-sen. Eventually, Chinese literature was westernized and the usage of classical language ceased. -
1700 BCE
Shang Dynasty
The Shang Dynasty was the first dynasty on record. There is much archaeological evidence found to account for its existence such as hieroglyphic writing on bronze and bones. -
1644 BCE
Qing Dynasty
After the Ming Empire invaded the Shang, they established the dynasty called the Qing Dynasty. The Manchus were not Chinese but retained the Neo-Confucian system nonetheless. The Qing Dynasty came under increasing attack from both civilian rebellions and foreign countries. -
1368 BCE
Ming Dynasty
The Chinese rebelled against the Mongols and the Ming Dynasty era began about 1368. Because of this and the presence of Muslim countries in between, trade with the west was reduced to the pre-Yuan level. A policy of Isolationism was put into place. Novels were the era’s main contribution. -
1045 BCE
Zou/Chou Dynasty
One of their biggest contributions was the book of Odes, created by ancient Chinese poets who composed war poems. Philosophy and religion were popular during this time. Their literature became the basis for Chinese religious such as Taoism, Confucianism and other prominent religions. -
960 BCE
Song Dynasty
Movable type was invented writing more simple and convenient. This helped to spread literature faster. The printed material could be published quickly and cheaply. Travel literature arose and the Confucian Classics were used as test material for the entrance exams into bureaucracy. Advanced scientific texts and atlases were published, and significant and influencial poems were written. -
618 BCE
Tang Dynasty
Poetry arose in Chinese literature that reflected the hard realities of war, dying slaves, and primitive rural life. Over 1,400 of famous poems survived, and are still read and appreciated today. -
206 BCE
Han Dynasty
They brought Confucianism back to daily life. and had the texts rewritten, republished, and available. They contributed greatly with historical texts and scientific works.
