The Shang Dynasty

Clashes over power and transitions across dynasties and lineages defines modern China. The intermingling of various cultures and walks of life, are a result of the warring dynasties. Constant usurping of power, decentralized powers create this melting pot. To understand modern China, it is important to pay homage to the exemplary patrons: Ancient Dynasties, ranging from Neolithic patriarchies to centralized empires. While many of these dynasties were separated by centuries and kilometers, an examination in the process of their ambition can reveal details about their impact on modernity. Much like the foundation to any strong structures, the Neolithic, "stone age", society of Yangshao could be showcased as a centerpiece to modern China.

The patriarchal society was an epitome of society, and the Kings of the dynasty were given authority by the divinity: "Mandate of Heaven". The era of the Shang was defined by cultural advancements such as metallurgy, calendar, and religious aspects. The Shang were a cultural marvel, producing works of arts characterized by luxury and tradition. While the Yangshao focused on practicality, and were limited by the simplicity of their technology, the Shang combined artistry with that of practicality. Their endeavored to seize power would be a result of both commerce and politics. As Elizabeth Childs showcases the "Shang as a key element of religious practice... This belief in metamorphic power, and the artistic program to which it gave rise are documented by data in written inscriptions and by a vocabulary of standardized visual elements" . Childs interprets the culture and artistry of the Shang, as of one defined by appraisal for shamanism and ritualistic tendencies. The social complexities presented by this, along with a study showing the correlation between dietary patterns and husbandry to that of social status, shows the Shang as a liege of politics. To gain power, the Shang would resort to the spread of their culture, most likely in battle. The Shang have been cited to be largely victorious in the defeat and annexation of other such cultures. However, while growth and seizure of

Liaised by a centralized self-governance, the Han can be viewed as an almost idealization of what a dynasty should be. The empire of the Han dynasty, akin to that of the Romans and the Shang, were a result of numerous conquests and political strife. The advancement of technology, along with other such innovations, meant that the quality and quantity of life had greatly improved. This would mean greater amount of resources, both in terms of commerce and firepower. Beyond conquest and commerce, both means of acquiring power and wealth by past dynasties, the Han were able to create everlasting impact on the modern world through the usage of philosophy. These texts often defied both humanistic and governmental