- 
  
  Earliest evidence of Chinese writing is found on Shang Oracle bones.
 - 
  
  Confucius teaches about ethical values such as honesty, loyalty and respect for elders; his disciples later record his teachings in Analects.
 - 
  
  Lao-tzu, legendary founder of Taoism develops teachings of Tao Te Ching.
 - 
  
  The Shih Ching (book of Odes) , the first anthology of Chinese poetry, is compiled.
 - 
  
  Taoist philosopher Chuang Tzu writes the Chuang Tzu.
 - 
  
  Ssu-ma Chi'en writes 'Records of the historian' a history of China through Wu Ti's reign.
 - 
  
  Pan Ku writes 'History of the former han dynasty'.
 - 
  
  The first chinese dictionary is compiled.
 - 
  
  Pan Chao -- a scholarly widow, sister of Pan Ku and imperial historian after his death -- writes Lessons for women.'
 - 
  
  Birth of Tao Ch'ien. Important early lyric poet.
 - 
  
  Poetry writing is included in the civil service examination.
 - 
  
  Birth of Wang wei, painter and poet
 - 
  
  Diamond Sutra, the first book with a printed date, is published.
 - 
  
  song lyrics, or Tz'u, sung by women entertainers become a major poetic form; Li Ch'ing-Chao masters the genre.
 - 
  
  Earliest known Chinese poems composed