Timeline & Chronology of the Shang Dynasty China (Ancient History)

History
Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
8 questions
~16 mins
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Timeline & Chronology of the Shang Dynasty China (Ancient History)

Subject: HistoryGrade: Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
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Untitled Worksheet

Grade Year 9 / GCSE / Grade 8
A

Introduction to the Shang Dynasty and Ancestors

Source A: Excerpt from a Shang Dynasty archaeological report

'The Shang people placed great importance on their ancestors, believing that their spirits influenced daily life and royal authority. Evidence from tombs shows elaborate sacrifices and offerings made to ancestors.' Provenance: Archaeological analysis of Shang tombs, 20th century.

1.
Outline the importance of ancestors in Shang society. (3 marks)
[3 marks]
2.
Compare the ways in which ancestors were honored in Shang society with other ancient cultures you know. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
B

Chronology of Key Events in the Shang Dynasty

Source B: Timeline of the Shang Dynasty

  • 1600 BCE: Shang Dynasty established
  • 1500 BCE: Development of ancestor worship rituals
  • 1250 BCE: Construction of royal tombs with elaborate grave goods
  • 1046 BCE: Shang conquered by the Zhou

Source C: Excerpt from a historian's account

'The Shang period was marked by significant advancements in bronze working, writing, and religious practices centered around ancestors.' Provenance: Modern historical analysis of Shang achievements.

1.
Write a timeline of four important events during the Shang Dynasty. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Analyze how advances in bronze working and writing during the Shang period might have supported ancestor worship. (6 marks)
[6 marks]
C

Comparing Ancestor Worship in Shang and Other Cultures

Source D: Excerpt from a comparative religion study

'Many ancient cultures practiced ancestor worship, but the Shang placed unique emphasis on elaborate sacrifices and tombs, reflecting their beliefs about the afterlife and social hierarchy.' Provenance: Modern comparative analysis of ancient religions.

1.
Compare the ancestor worship practices of the Shang with those of another ancient culture you know. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Explain how ancestor veneration influenced the political structure of the Shang Dynasty. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
D

Summary and Reflection

Reflect on how the beliefs about ancestors in Shang China shaped their society and culture. Consider aspects such as religion, politics, and social hierarchy in your response.

1.
Write a brief paragraph explaining the impact of ancestor worship on Shang society. (4 marks)
[4 marks]
2.
Compare your understanding of ancestor beliefs in Shang China with your own culture or beliefs. Write a short paragraph. (4 marks)
[4 marks]

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Details

Created
1/1/2026
Updated
1/1/2026
Type
worksheet