
The Dynasties of China The Chinese history of imperial dynasties covers an extended period of time from 221 BC till 1911 AD. Chinese history may be divided into three periods: 1. Pre-imperial China (the dynasties of Xia, Shang, and Zhou up to 221 BC); 2. Imperial China (Qin Dynasty 221 BC - Qing Dynasty 1911);); 3. New China (1911 – modern time). Travel China Guide - Time Line for China History and Dynastie s China, under eight powerful dynasties: Qin Han - The Han Dynasty ruled China from 206 B.C. to 220 A.D. and was the second imperial dynasty of China. Though tainted by deadly dramas within the royal court, it is also known for promoting Confucianism as the state religion and opening the Silk Road trade route to Europe, permanently altering the course of Chinese history. Han Dynasty art and inventions like paper still influence the world today. Sui, Tan, Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing, developed into one of the world’s strongest countries, becoming the leader in the Asian Con...