Social Classes in Ancient China
The Emperor and Mandate of Heaven
Roles and Professions
Women in Ancient Chinese Society
100

This class was at the top of the social hierarchy

what is the Shi class?

100

This concept justified the emperor’s right to rule and could be lost if the emperor failed.

What is the Mandate of Heaven?

100

Artisans, like potters and metalworkers, belonged to this social class.

What is the Gong?

100

In ancient China, women were most valued for doing this important job in the family.

what is it to have children and take care of then, especially boys.

200

This class made up about 90% of the population

What is the Nong class?

200

This title was not officially part of any social class, yet it was the most powerful position in ancient China.

What is the Emperor?

200

Peasants provided this essential product to the kingdom, which made them highly valued despite their lower status.

How wa food food?

200

Upon getting married, a woman in ancient China was expected to join this part of her new family’s household

why did women move to her husbands household

300

This class consisted of artisans and craftspeople who created specialized items

What is the Gong class?

300

If an emperor failed to rule well, people believed he lost this divine approval.

What is the Mandate of Heaven?


300

Members of this class could sometimes establish businesses by passing down their craft skills.

. What is the Gong?

300

In times of extreme poverty, some families resorted to this tragic act involving their daughters.

  • What is infanticide or selling into slavery?


400

Although at the bottom of the social structure, members of this class could become wealthy

What is the Shang class?

400

If an emperor failed to rule well, people believed he lost this divine approval.

What is the Mandate of Heaven?

400

Though below the peasants, this class often produced goods that were essential for everyday life.

What is the Gong?

400

After marriage women were expected to live with these people.

husbands family!

500

This group, technically not considered part of the social hierarchy, could be captured in war or sold

Who are the Slaves?

500

When an emperor lost the Mandate of Heaven, this group could overthrow him.

Who are rebellious subjects or new rulers?

500

Merchants often used this financial method to increase their wealth, despite being seen as dishonorable.

What is lending money and charging interest?

500

Women were expected to help their husbands take care of these family members.


elderly parents