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Shang Dynasty Class System, image , image , image , image , image , …
Shang Dynasty Class System
KING
The king and his relatives were the highest in the class system.
The King was the ruler of the area and made most decisions.
FARMERS
The largest social class
Worked on small plots of land.
Planted and harvested millet, wheat, barley, rice, fruits, vegetables, and several other food sources.
Farmers also raised animals like cattle, pigs, and chickens.
SLAVES
Very bottom of the social classes.
Many slaves were prisoners of war.
Often built tombs and palaces.
If a slaves master dies, the slave was often sacrificed. It was believed that Shang slaves should continue to serve masters in teh afterlife.
TRADERS
Mostly exchanged goods.
Often used Cowrie Shells as money.
Shang people had to trade with other regions to get the cowrie shells because of their high value.
NOBLES
Nobles were the highest ranking social class.
Nobles made up most of the military and were provided with:
foot soldiers
chariots
weapons
Often enjoyed a life of luxury and were given symbols of power by the king.
ARTISANS
A talented, but small social class.
Skilled in bronze and arts.
Made weapons to be used by Nobles and Soldiers.
Made and decorated containers for the King, or as a show of wealth.
Jade Disk gifted by the king
