The Warring States Period

The Warring States Period (c. 475–221 BCE) was a time of intense conflict among Chinese states competing for dominance after the decline of the Zhou Dynasty. Characterized by frequent battles, political intrigue, and technological advancements in warfare, it saw the rise of powerful kingdoms like Qin, Chu, and Han. This chaotic era ultimately ended when Qin unified China under its first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. The period significantly shaped Chinese culture, philosophy (notably Confucianism and Daoism), and state-building practices, marking a pivotal transition from fragmented feudal states to a centralized imperial rule.