Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
The Yangshao culture was a Neolithic society that existed in China from around 5000 to 3000 BCE. It is characterized by its painted pottery, agricultural practices, and early forms of social organization.
Related terms
Banpo Village: A well-preserved archaeological site associated with the Yangshao culture, revealing insights into their daily life activities such as farming and hunting.
Oracle Bones: Inscribed animal bones or turtle shells used for divination during later periods in Chinese history but not directly related to the Yangshao culture.
Clan-based Society: The social structure prevalent in many Neolithic cultures including Yangshao, where people organized themselves based on kinship ties.