Map Introduction

Shang Dynasty (c. 17th century – 11th century BCE) was the second dynasty in Chinese history. Along with the Xia and Zhou dynasties, it is referred to as one of China's "Three Dynasties" and holds a position of considerable importance in Chinese history.

Around the 17th century BCE, the Shang clan—a tribe that revered the bird as its totem—rose to power in the lower reaches of the Yellow River. Its leader, Cheng Tang, enjoyed strong popular support. With the substantial assistance of ministers like Yi Yin and Zhong Hui, he initiated a war against Jie, the tyrannical last ruler of the Xia. He first eliminated Xia's allied states such as Ge, Wei, Gu, Kun, and Wu, cutting off Jie's support. He then decisively defeated Jie's armies at the ruins of Yousong and at Mingtiao. After returning to his capital at Bo, Cheng Tang formally ascended the throne as king, receiving homage from various lords, thus marking the official establishment of the Shang Dynasty.

Over its more than 600 years of development, the Shang Dynasty made significant strides compared to the Xia in various aspects such as politics, economy, and science. Judging from the archaeological site of Yinxu, the Shang had completely moved away from the lifestyle of primitive tribes, transitioning from nomadism to settled habitation. A large number of oracle bones used for divination, along with exquisite bronze ware, jade objects, and other items, have been unearthed at Yinxu. Among these, the "Simuwu Rectangular Ding" discovered in Anyang is the largest piece of bronze ware found in China to date. This indicates that the Shang Dynasty had reached a considerably high level in bronze smelting and casting technology. The oracle bone script found on the tortoise shells and bones is widely recognized as the writing of the Shang period. This is the earliest form of Chinese pictographic writing that we can decipher today, providing powerful evidence for the study of Shang culture.

The Shang Dynasty saw a total of 31 kings over 17 generations, lasting for approximately 496 years.

The Historical Map of the Shang Dynasty Period in China displays a legend including: * Capital of the Shang Dynasty — Shangyin (Yin) * Names of Vassal States/Fiefs and their Capitals — Zhoufeng * City/Town — Tang * Archaeological Sites * Present-day National Capital — Beijing * Location of People's Government of Present-day Municipality, Province, Autonomous Region — Shanghai * Location of Present-day Municipal People's Government — Chifeng * Present-day Other Settlements — Jianchuan

Historically, the capital of the Shang Dynasty was moved seven times: Bo; Xiao; Xiang; Xing; Bi; Yan; Yin.

Related Maps * National Map during the Shang Dynasty Period * Map of Mongolia during the Shang Dynasty Period