King Jian of Zhou facts for kids

King Jian of Zhou (Chinese: 周簡王; pinyin: Zhōu Jiǎn Wáng), whose personal name was Ji Yi, was a ruler of the ancient Chinese Zhou dynasty. He was the twenty-second king of this long-lasting dynasty. He was also the tenth king to rule during the period known as the Eastern Zhou dynasty. King Jian ruled China for 13 years, from 585 BC to 572 BC.

The Zhou Dynasty and King Jian's Reign

The Zhou dynasty was one of the longest dynasties in Chinese history. It lasted for over 800 years! During King Jian's time, the Zhou kings still held an important position. However, their power was not as strong as it had been in earlier times. Many smaller states had grown powerful.

Life as a King in Ancient China

As king, Jian of Zhou was responsible for leading his people. He would have performed important ceremonies and rituals. These rituals were believed to keep the kingdom in harmony. Kings also had to manage relationships with other powerful states. This often involved diplomacy or sometimes even warfare.

King Jian's Family

King Jian of Zhou had several sons. His most famous son became the next ruler of the Zhou dynasty.

King Jian's Sons

• Prince Xiexin (王子洩心): He later became King Ling of Zhou. King Ling ruled from 571 BC to 545 BC. He continued the royal line of the Zhou dynasty.
• Another son: This son's name is not fully known. He was the ancestor of an important family line called the Dan lineage. His son was named Dan Kuo (儋括). This son was also known as Dan Ji (儋季).

See also

• Family tree of ancient Chinese emperors