Chinese Events That Influenced Literature Timeline

By alexisjavier
  • 1400 BCE

    First Evidence of Writing

    In 1936, archaeologists discovered the first evidence of writing in China. Pictographs on turtle shells dated back to 1400 BC were found at the ancient An-yang site.
  • 1000 BCE

    Earliest Known Chinese Poems Composed

    Circa 1000 BC, the earliest known Chinese poems were composed. This contributes to the development of literature because it is the first time this style of writing was seen in China.
  • 712 BCE

    Birth of Tu Fu

    Circa 712 AD, Tu Fu is born during the T'ang dynasty. This is significant because he is one of the most notable poets in Chinese literature.
  • 701 BCE

    Birth of Li Po

    Circa 701 AD, Li Po is born during the T'ang dynasty. This is significant because he is one of the most notable poets in Chinese literature.
  • 551 BCE

    Confucius Spreads Teachings

    Circa 551 BC, Confucius began teaching ethical values. With the help of his disciples, Confucianist ethics are distributed throughout China.
  • 500 BCE

    Book of Odes Is Composed

    Circa 500 BC, the Book of Odes, the first anthology of Chinese poetry, was composed. This is significant because it is the earliest known major work in literature.
  • 500 BCE

    Lao-tzu Develops Teachings of Tao Te Ching

    Circa 500 BC, Taoist founder Lao-tzu develops the teachings of Tao Te Ching. This provides a basis for the teachings of Taoism.
  • 100 BCE

    First Chinese Dictionary

    Circa 100 AD, the first Chinese dictionary is established. This serves as a major foundation for Chinese literature and documents vocabulary and words found in their language.