Early Chinese Cultures: Their Highlighted Achievements

Throughout the ages of the world, civilizations have come and gone. They’ve each contributed to various levels of physical and spiritual development. Despite the remarkable mathematical and astronomic discoveries from Middle Eastern societies, few civilizations have equaled the achievements of early China. From the earliest cultures of Yangshao to the advanced society of the Shang, numerous developments grace their legacy.

Being the earliest of cultures, Yangshao demonstrated supreme agricultural industry. Slash-and-burn growing techniques were one of many implemented methods. This method consists of cutting down grassy or wordy areas, and thereafter burning the debris to make a clearing for fields. After theses areas were cleared and planted, Yangshao peoples used hoes for digging and cultivation. Greatest of all Yangshao history is that of their silk production. They essentially mastered the art of spinning silk. Since the peoples harvested it from caterpillar cocoons, it required many hours of work to gather the fifteen pounds of cocoons necessary for one pound of silk. Though ancient in comparison to modern day, Yangshao was notably advanced in every aspect of agricultural practice.

Continuing the development of ancient China, the Longshan culture presented a new way of life. While slash-and-burn methods often required villages to move on in search of more fertile soil, the Longshan resorted to permanent settlement. This settlement allowed them to build wealth and store provisions. Often times these provisions were coveted by those who had none. As such, a primitive form of institutionalized violence led to the necessity of village walls. These walls were constructed from stamped clay. Due to the war-induced preoccupation of Longshan peoples, minimal writings from this period have been found.

Emerging as the first Chinese dynasty, the Shang dynasty did much to initiate progress and prosperity. They were responsible for numerous advances in warfare. Additionally, their development of bronze credits them with historic recognition. In modern civilization, gold is considered the most prized commodity; bronze was the gold of the Shang dynasty. Bronze was the primary symbol of wealth, which also made it the prime symbol of authority. Likewise, it was used for weaponry, tools, ritualistic ornaments, and any other item of merited worth. In addition to bronze, chariot warfare rose as another technological advance. Horse-drawn chariots were paired with regiments of infantry. Soldiers were armed with bronze and stone crafted weapons, including the Shang invented crossbow. It was leagues more powerful than a longbow, plus its smaller size aided in functionality. These elements provided for a massively successful fighting force. Many other findings can be credited to this dynasty, though not all have the same level of contribution to our modern world.

As can be seen from these few facts, ancient cultures were just as advanced as cultures of today. With the resources given them, they equaled today’s level of growth. So much was left for discovery. How modern peoples proceed can be determined by their mindfulness of history. Never leaving a stone unturned or a question unanswered. Ancient civilizations exponentially grew from their search of new development, and the same can be accomplished today.