The third dynasty Zhou, was established in 1027 BC and it was destroyed by Qin in 256 BC, lasting approximately 770 years. It can be divided into two periods by the move of the capital West Zhou and East Zhou. The latter of which consists in two stages ------ Spring and Autumn, Warring States.

West Zhou lasted from 1027 BC to 771 BC. The first king, Wu, moved the capital to Gao and demolished Shang. After the enthronement of Cheng, Zhougong suppressed the riots and more importantly, he carried out many measures to strengthen the newly-built dynasty. The system of conventions includes Jingtianzhi, Zongfazhi, Guoyezhi and Liyue, to name a few important ones.

With the development of economy and the growth of population, big powers battled with each other and the condition changed. Iron-made agricultural tools had been adopted and cattle aids to plough, and irrigation works came into its first prosperity. The traditional order of society collapsed and a new time was in sight.

The first great thinker and teacher in Chinese history was Confucius.  He was born in the late years of spring and autumn. He set up the school of Ru based on the turbulent situation and his own theories of morality, society and politics.

Warring States is another era for separatist regimes and contending for hegemony. Generally speaking, it began in 403 BC, during which Jin was divided into three dynasties. They were known as the Han, Zhao and Wei which ended in 221 BC.

Great changes took place in this era. Small powers had been annexed and what remained were the strongest seven. They were the Qin, Chu, Yan, Han, Zhao, Wei and Qi dynasty. Political reforms succeeded and the most influential one is Reformation of Shangyang.

Wars could not be the hindrance of culture. Literati appeared, who identified themselves with academy and who promoted the prosperity of culture. The first summit had come, for ancient China.  The school of Ru, Dao, Fa, and Mo would shine on the posterity. "Let A hundred flowers blossom and a hundred schools of thought contend!" This page will shine on us forever.

The consolidation of China started in 230 BC and was consumed in 221 BC, under the leadership of Yinzheng, the king of Qin.  As a result, nearly 600 years of confusion and turbulence came to an end.