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1700 BCE
Shang dynasty
This was the first dynasty where there was a historical record and archaeological evidence. Archaeological objects found hieroglyphic writing. The hieroglyphic writing system later evolved into Chinese characters. -
960 BCE
Song dynasty
This dynasty was weaker than the Tang Dynasty. The imperial government made technical advances. During the Tang Dynasty, the movable type was invented and made writing simple and convenient. -
500 BCE
Book of Odes
The earliest known major literary work found in China was the Book of Odes. This included many poems called the Book of Odes. -
206 BCE
Han dynasty
The Han Dynasty lasted for 400 years. Historical Records examined major events that occurred before the Shang Dynasty. -
100
Chinese dictionary
The first Chinese dictionary was created by Xu Shen. The dictionary was created to learn the Chinese characters and symbols for writing, and reading. -
690
Poetry included in the Civil Service Examination
Including poetry meant that poetry was very important in China. Poetry writing was included in the civil service examination because the exam was used to test if one knew culture and current literature. -
868
Diamond Sutra published
Diamond Sutra was the first book published in China that had a printed date. This book was written about Zen Buddhism. -
900
Tz'u
Tz'u were song lyrics sung by women in China. This was a form of entertainment. This was from the Warring States Period.
