-
Period: 2070 BCE to 1600 BCE
Xia
The Xia dynasty was the first of many ancient Chinese ruling houses, thought to exist from around 2070 B.C.E. until 1600 B.C.E. -
Period: 1127 BCE to 1279 BCE
Song
The Song dynasty is commonly separated into two historical periods, the Northern Song, 960–1127, and the Southern Song.1127–1279, divided by the loss of the north to the Jurchen Jin dynasty, 1115–1234. -
Period: 221 BCE to 207 BCE
Qin
The Qin, which lasted only from 221 to 207 bce but from which the name China is derived, established the approximate boundaries and basic administrative system that all subsequent Chinese dynasties were to follow for the next two millennia. -
Period: 206 BCE to 220
Han
The Han Dynasty ruled China from 206 B.C. to 220 A.D. and was the second imperial dynasty of China. -
Period: 618 to 906
Tang
The Tang Dynasty is considered a golden age of Chinese arts and culture. In power from 618 to 906 A.D., Tang China attracted an international reputation that spilled out of its cities and, through the practice of Buddhism, spread its culture across much of Asia. -
Period: 1046 to 256
Zhou
The beginning date of the Zhou has long been debated. Traditionally, it has been given as 1122 bce, and that date has been successively revised as scholars have uncovered more archaeological evidence. The most recent findings have placed the outright start of the dynasty at 1046 bce. The dynasty ended in 256 bce. -
Period: 1206 to 1368
Mongolian Empire
At its peak, the Mongol Empire covered the most contiguous territory in history. Led at first by Genghis Khan, the empire lasted from 1206 until 1368. During that time, it expanded to cover most of Eurasia, thanks to advanced technology and a massive horde of nomadic warriors. -
Period: 1368 to
Ming
Ming dynasty, Wade-Giles romanization Ming, Chinese dynasty that lasted from 1368 to 1644 and provided an interval of native Chinese rule between eras of Mongol and Manchu dominance, respectively.