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Period: 1400 BCE to 1100 BCE
Earliest Chinese Writing
The earliest Chinese writing was found around 1400-1100 B.C. on oracle bones. This was during the Shang Dynasty -
Period: 551 BCE to 479 BCE
Confucius Develops Teachings
Around 500 B.C., Confucius developed his philosophical teachings. They continue to influence literature to this day. -
Period: 500 BCE to 400 BCE
Lao-tzu Develops Taoism
In the 500s B.C., Lao-tzu developed Taoism. Similar to Confucianism, his teachings still influence literature today. -
Period: 90 BCE to 80 BCE
Records of the Historian written
Ssu-ma Ch'ien wrote this book, which is a history of China. It was one of the first written histories documented. -
105
Paper Invented
In 105, the Chinese invented paper. This would have a big effect on writing and the spread of literature. -
690
Poetry added to Civil Service Exam
In 690 A.D., the Chinese added poetry to their civil service exam. This highlights the importance it served in Chinese culture. -
701
Li Po's Birth
Li Po, an important poet, was born in 701 A.D. -
712
Birth of Tu Fu
Tu Fu, also an important lyrical poet in China, was born shortly after Li Po in 712 A.D.