Western Zhou dynasty

The Western Zhou dynasty, a significant period in Chinese history, spanned from 1046 to 771 BCE. This era was characterized by a feudal system where the Zhou court maintained control through a network of states. The Zhou people, whose origins are somewhat mythical, eventually settled in the Wei River valley, developing a distinct state.123

The Zhou dynasty overthrew the Shang dynasty through a series of military campaigns, with Wenwang laying the groundwork and Wuwang achieving the conquest. Following the conquest, the Zhou established an eastern capital at Luoyang to support their rule and expand their influence. This period saw significant cultural achievements, including advancements in bronze casting, the development of the Chinese writing system, and the introduction of iron and new agricultural techniques. The dynasty also laid the foundation for major philosophical schools like Confucianism and Daoism.123