Spring and Autumn

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Spring and Autumn

The Eastern Zhou (770-221 BC) is divided into two different periods. The Spring and Autumn Period is the first subperiod of it (770-476 BC). It was named after the Spring and Autumn Annals written by Confucius. Even though the Zhou kings lost control of the area, they still believed they were appointed by the gods and “continued to be the ceremonial lords of the kingdoms” (Manual 188). There were over 140 states, and many were fighting each other. There were over 480 wars. During the Spring and Autumn period, the economy really grew even with all the fighting between the different territories. The Iron Age of China was also during this time period, bringing oxen-drawn plows made of iron. There was also a developed irrigation system which made the farming more successful (also more wealth) which made the population grow larger. People started becoming merchants and traders. This caused communication to boom, and people started carrying messages on horses. The communication system caused the rulers to control more people. Communication really improved, and news went around faster.

References: CF Manual http://www.travelchinaguide.com/intro/history/zhou/eastern/

Christina Ru