Shang Dynasty 商朝 [1,600 BC – 1,046 BC]
The Shang Dynasty is the second dynasty of China, founded by King Shang Tang, who overthrew Jie, the last king of the previous Xia Dynasty. Jie is known for his tyranny and brutality, officially replaced the Xia’s 470-year rule.
The name “Shang” comes from a tribe of semi-nomadic people who grew strong under several generations of leadership. The Shang became a model for many vassal states, especially those that had been mistreated and threatened by the Xia. Calls for regime change led to widespread support for Shang Tang, as he was seen as the undisputed candidate for leadership. It seemed that a change was only a matter of time.
Although Shang overthrew the Xia Dynasty, however Xia as the first true-scale empire, had laid the groundwork for an effective administrative system. Shang Tang was wise and prudent enough to build upon this foundation and further enhance it.
What We Learned from the China Second Dynasty - Shang
We can learn about the Shang Dynasty’s history from the archaeological site of Yinxu. This ancient city served as the capital during most of the dynasty’s peak period. Prior to Yin capital, the Shang Dynasty had five different capitals, making it the sixth and final capital.
The Shang Dynasty lasted for 554 years and had 31 kings. I would like to focus on several key points that I believe are significant and worth sharing.
Oracle Writing [China First Writing System]
The most important contribution of the Shang Dynasty is its oracle writing. Oracle writing provides us with real-time insights into the Shang Dynasty.
In English, it is referred to as “Oracle,” while its actual Chinese name is “Jiǎ Gǔ Wén,” which translates directly to “Shell Bone Writing.” This writing is found on tortoise shells and bones, primarily from oxen.
It is important to note that, although oracle writing is the first known writing system in China, many of its words and symbols are not entirely original. Archaeological findings have uncovered similar symbols that predate the Shang, even before the Xia period. However, these earlier discoveries are isolated and less common, primarily found on pottery, which makes it difficult for experts to classify them as a writing system.
So far, archaeologists have uncovered more than 5,000 sets of oracle artifacts. Although most of these artifacts are broken pieces, experts can still study and analyse them. The uncovered oracles were primarily used for divination, a practice of seeking guidance from the divine or supernatural realm.
Chinese oracle writing can be considered a type of hieroglyphics, meaning the words and symbols combine pictorial elements with phonetic signs. Generally, most of the ancient words and symbols, including the oracle characters, are in this category. This has led experts to believe that the oracle developed from earlier symbols and words.
Shang Dynasty created the oracle writing system.
We must recognize that it was a remarkably advanced era compared to its predecessors. Society had evolved into a complex one that required sophisticated communication tools for effective governance. As a result, the Chinese oracle was developed. Although many of its words and symbols did not originate from the Shang, experts have found that approximately two-thirds of them are newly created. The Shang needed to introduce more words to complete the writing system and facilitate comprehensive communication.
Chinese oracle writing is the foundation of a writing system that has continuously evolved and improved over three millennia, leading to today’s Chinese writing, known as “Hàn Zì.” I find the topic of Chinese writing fascinating, and I may consider writing an article about it in the future.
Bronze Manufacturing
The Xia dynasty initiated the practice of bronze manufacturing, creating various bronze objects, including intricate wine containers, primarily as royal endorsements of the hierarchical system, alongside small-sized bronze weapons.
The Shang Dynasty elevated bronze manufacturing to an extraordinary level. Their bronze artifacts are noted for their diverse shapes and impressive dimensions. The “Simuwu Cauldron,” for example, weighs over 800 kg and stands nearly 4 feet tall and wide. These artifacts feature beautiful surface patterns that showcase exceptional craftsmanship. Producing such impressive objects required not only advanced bronze moulding techniques but also high standards in bronze melting and material quality.
Another remarkable piece is the “Four Ram Square Zun,” which weighs approximately 35 kg and stands about 2 feet tall. This artifact displays unmatched detail in both craftsmanship and design.
The “Da He Square Cauldron” is unique as the only bronze artifact that features a human face. Interestingly, it also bears two inscriptions. The words “Da He” may translate to “Big Corps,” possibly indicating the name of its owner or describing the object itself. This suggests that it might have been used for divination or in prayer for a good harvest
The Shang dynasty’s advancements in bronze manufacturing opened new dimensions and possibilities for the use of metal, particularly in military weaponry and horse-drawn chariots.
Military Armada
The advancement in bronze technology provided a significant advantage to the Shang in weapons manufacturing.
Experts have uncovered various bronze weapons, as well as a powerful military horse chariot. These represented the cutting-edge technologies of their time, allowing the Shang to dominate the Yellow River region for over 500 years. Bronze weapons are tougher and sharper, making them more effective than their enemies’ armaments.
The use of bronze in horse chariots offered a crucial advantage over conventional wooden ones. The strength of bronze allowed for the creation of larger and stronger chariots.
One notable discovery is a two-horse chariot, considered the first of its kind during that period. The ability to harness two horses enabled a greater payload and higher speed. Experts have identified several types of two-horse chariots designed for different purposes, contributing to optimal performance. The Chinese advancements in chariot technology significantly accelerated their military capabilities.
The Unstoppable Shang and Its Peak
The Shang Dynasty holds a strong position with its advantages: the Oracle writing system and advanced transportation methods. The dynasty is advancing at an unprecedented speed, solidifying its control over the land around the Yellow River.
Shang Dynasty reached its zenith under the 22nd King, Wu Ding. During his over 50-year reign, the Shang achieved significant advancements in commerce, trade, military strength, and transportation. The people of the Shang Dynasty enjoyed a period of peace and prosperity.
Di Xin [Last King of the Shang Dynasty]
Legend portrays Di Xin as an intelligent and physically impressive individual, adept in martial arts and capable of lifting heavy objects. Ancient records also characterize him as a cruel and brutal ruler. One of his infamous methods of torture involved the use of a hot metal rod—a tree trunk-like object heated to extreme temperatures. Victims would be tied to this burning trunk as a public punishment, meant to instil fear and suppress dissent.
Di Xin was also known for his extravagance and indulgence, seemingly indifferent to the suffering of his people. Legend has it that he ordered the construction of a towering structure named “Lu Tai,” reaching more than 100 meters in height. This tower was filled with luxurious goods, where the emperor could indulge in pleasure with his concubines, enjoying the finest foods and wines. Today, there is a historical site of “Lu Tai” in Henan, which is open to visitors.
Chinese oral legends and more
Di Xin has become a well-known figure among ordinary people, often referred to as “Shang Zou Wang,” which translates directly to “Shang Cruel/Brutal King.” For millennials, “Shang Zou Wang” was thought to be a mythical villain from oral legends. However, recent discoveries indicate that this figure is based in actual history.
Similar instances have occurred with other legendary figures. For example, we discussed “Di Yao” in our previous post titled “The Early Kingdoms,” as well as “Yan Di” and “Huang Di” in the post “Descendants of Yan and Huang.” There is increasingly convincing evidence that these figures could also be rooted in historical reality. Therefore, we should approach Chinese legends with greater seriousness and respect, as they may turn out to reflect true historical events.
The End of China Second Dynasty – Shang Dynasty
Due to Di Xin’s notorious tyranny and hedonism, both the Shang people and other vassal states longed for change. This opportunity came when the Zhou state emerged as a formidable challenger, gaining the support of other vassal states. The Zhou were renowned for their kindness and thoughtful leadership, rallying others to fight against Di Xin.
In 1046 B.C., the Zhou and their allies defeated Di Xin’s army. With no escape route available, Di Xin ascended the Lu Tai tower and took his own life.
Reincarnation of Fate
Ironically, the very tyranny that led to the establishment of the Shang Dynasty, due to the oppressive rule of the Xia King, was also responsible for its downfall. History came full circle, marking the end of China second dynasty- Shang Dynasty
After the collapse, the Shang people were no longer a ruling class but became known as skilled traders involved in commerce and trading.
In Chinese, “merchant” is generally referred to as “Shang People,” a term that persists to this day.
