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1400 BCE
Earliest Evidence of Chinese writing.
The first evidence of Chinese writing was found on Shang oracle bones. These writings are also referred to as oracle bone scripts. -
1000 BCE
Chinese Poetry
The earliest known Chinese poems are composed. Shih Ching was the first collection of 305 poems. -
Period: 551 BCE to 479 BCE
Confucius
Confucius during this time teaches of his ethical values. Some of which include honesty, loyalty, respect for elders. His disciples recorded his teachings in the book Analects. -
500 BCE
Taoism
Lao-tzu founded Taoism. The teachings of Tao Te Ching are developed. -
100
Chinese Dictionary
The first Chinese dictionary is compiled. Over 4,500 pages are included in this three part compilation. -
Feb 7, 690
Civil Examinations
In China a civil service exam was administered to determine career. During this year poetry was included in this examination. -
Feb 7, 868
Diamond Sutra
Diamond Sutra was the first book with a printed date. It was published during this year. -
Period: Feb 8, 900 to Feb 8, 1200
Song Lyrics
The first song lyrics (tz'u) were sung by women entertainers. This became a major poetic form as the words were put to music.
