Chinese Events that Influenced Literature Timeline

By kEvans2
  • Period: 1400 BCE to 1100 BCE

    Earliest Chinese Writing

    The earliest Chinese writing was found around 1400-1100 B.C. on oracle bones. This was during the Shang Dynasty
  • Period: 551 BCE to 479 BCE

    Confucius Develops Teachings

    Around 500 B.C., Confucius developed his philosophical teachings. They continue to influence literature to this day.
  • Period: 500 BCE to 400 BCE

    Lao-tzu Develops Taoism

    In the 500s B.C., Lao-tzu developed Taoism. Similar to Confucianism, his teachings still influence literature today.
  • Period: 90 BCE to 80 BCE

    Records of the Historian written

    Ssu-ma Ch'ien wrote this book, which is a history of China. It was one of the first written histories documented.
  • 105

    Paper Invented

    In 105, the Chinese invented paper. This would have a big effect on writing and the spread of literature.
  • 690

    Poetry added to Civil Service Exam

    In 690 A.D., the Chinese added poetry to their civil service exam. This highlights the importance it served in Chinese culture.
  • 701

    Li Po's Birth

    Li Po, an important poet, was born in 701 A.D.
  • 712

    Birth of Tu Fu

    Tu Fu, also an important lyrical poet in China, was born shortly after Li Po in 712 A.D.