CHINA

HistoryChina is the world’s oldest continuous civilization.China has been settled for over 4,000 years.Originally ruled by dynasties – a series of rulers from the same family.

DynastiesShang – 1700 B.C., ruled central China for 600 yearsZhou – overthrew the Shang & ruled northern ChinaQin – 221 B.C. gave China its name, united many small states and established a strong central government.Qing - 16441911 – overthrown by revolutionist & ended the dynasties.

History Marco Polo – 1400’s, he & other European travelers visited.

1900’s – China is forced to split their land up according to European demands (similar to the Berlin Conference).Spheres of Influence – how the land was split up.

Boxer Rebellion – 1900, ended European control & left China lacking a government.

HistoryA Nationalist party was formed in 1912, but eventually was weakened by a civil war. Mao Zedong – leader of the communist party took control

Economy Communist leaders set out to modernize China.

Primarily rural – agriculture (self-sufficient) – rice, maize, wheat

- great rivers & rich soil – 60% of pop are farmers

Only 13% of the land is arable… WHY?

EconomyIndustry – primarily in the northeast, WHY??

China’s economy is growing, & rapidly becoming urbanized. - coal, iron, & oil

Religion3 major religions – Confucianism, Taoism, & BuddhismConfucianism – Confucius (philosopher) stressed respecting the past (ancestors), respect the government, & educationTaoism – Lao-tzu, preserving harmony in individuals & universeBuddhism - rebirth

Population World’s most populous country – 1.3 billion people

40 Chinese cities have over 1 million people

Healthcare is on the rise in China for ALL of its people

HistoryChina is the world’s oldest continuous civilization.

HistoryChina is the world’s oldest continuous civilization.