Editing China (section)

== History ==
China is one of the world’s oldest civilizations. Its history is divided into many [[dynasties]].

=== Early Dynasties ===
The first known dynasty with written records was the [[Shang dynasty]]. Later came the [[Zhou dynasty]], which lasted many centuries and included both peaceful and chaotic periods.

=== Warring States ===
From 453–221 BCE, many small states fought for power. Famous thinkers like [[Confucius]] and [[Laozi]] lived during this time.

=== Qin Dynasty ===
In 221 BCE, [[Qin Shi Huangdi]] united China and became the first emperor. He standardized money, writing, and measurements, and began building early versions of the Great Wall. His famous [[Terracotta Army]] was buried with him.

=== Han Dynasty ===
The [[Han dynasty]] (206 BCE–220 CE) is considered a golden age. China grew strong in science, art, and trade. Buddhism spread into China during this time.

=== 20th Century ===
China faced invasions, civil war, and the fall of the last imperial dynasty. In 1949, Mao Zedong founded the People’s Republic of China. Hong Kong and Macau returned to China in the 1990s.