Chou dynasty

The Zhou Dynasty, which lasted from about 1046 to 256 BCE, was one of ancient China’s longest and most influential dynasties. It followed the Shang Dynasty and introduced significant changes, including the concept of the "Mandate of Heaven," which justified the ruler's authority. The Zhou era saw advancements in philosophy, including Confucianism and Taoism, and improvements in agriculture and technology. The dynasty is divided into the Western Zhou (1046-771 BCE) and Eastern Zhou (770-256 BCE), with the latter further divided into the Spring and Autumn period and the Warring States period, characterized by political fragmentation and warfare among states.