Xia 夏 dynasty

There is no written evidence of the Xia dynasty, which is why its researches are based on reports from later historians, archaeological finds, and legends. Therefore the Xia dynasty is often referred to as the “mystical” dynasty. An example of the legends of the Xia dynasty are the three great emperors Yao 尧, Shun 舜 and Yu 禹, who are mentioned by Confucius (551-479 BC) and present role models in terms of rulership and moral values.

As excavations of the palace Erlitou 二 里头 (Henan 河南) suggest that the Xia dynasty was a basic "state" institution. The highest position in society was assigned to the ruling king, assisted by officials. The Xia dynasty was a "state" with nine "provinces" administered by nine prefects.

Unique archaeological finds made out of bronze can be dated back till the times of the Xia dynasty.