Chinese Military History

Chinese military history spans thousands of years, featuring powerful ancient armies like the Shang and Zhou dynasties, renowned for innovations such as chariots and armor. The Warring States period (475–221 BCE) saw frequent conflicts among states vying for dominance, leading to the unification under the Qin Dynasty, which established the first centralized empire. Subsequent dynasties, including the Han, Tang, and Ming, developed advanced warfare tactics, fortifications like the Great Wall, and naval capabilities. In modern times, China’s military evolved from Qing Dynasty conflicts through revolutionary upheavals, ultimately forming the People’s Liberation Army, shaping China into a major global military power.