Ancient China

Ancient China is one of the oldest civilizations in the world. People have lived in China for thousands of years. Chinese civilization began along the Yellow River and the Yangtze River. Over time, powerful dynasties, or ruling families, took turns leading the country. The Chinese invented many things we still use today, like paper, silk, and compasses.

Dynasties and Emperors

China was ruled by a long line of dynasties. Each dynasty was a family that held power for many years. The Shang Dynasty is one of the earliest we know about. The Qin Dynasty united all of China under one emperor. The Han Dynasty brought a time of peace and learning. Emperors had great power and lived in beautiful palaces. They believed they had the right to rule from heaven.

Amazing Inventions

The ancient Chinese were brilliant inventors. They created paper, which changed how people shared ideas. They invented gunpowder, which was first used for fireworks. The compass helped sailors find their way at sea. They also made silk, a soft and shiny cloth that people around the world wanted to buy. The Silk Road was a famous trade route that connected China to faraway lands.

Fun Facts

• The Great Wall of China is so long that it would take about 18 months to walk its entire length.
• Ancient Chinese people invented ice cream by mixing snow with fruit and honey.
• The first paper money in the world was used in China over 1,000 years ago.

Did You Know?

The Terracotta Army in China has over 8,000 life-sized clay soldiers that were buried to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.