北周 (Northern Zhou) was a Chinese dynasty that existed from 557 to 581 AD. It was established after the fall of the Northern Qi dynasty and was part of the Northern Dynasties period. The dynasty was known for its military strength and efforts to unify northern China, as well as for its promotion of Buddhism and the arts. The founder of 北周 was Yuwen Tai, who played a crucial role in consolidating power. The dynasty eventually fell to the Sui dynasty in 581 AD, which marked the end of the Northern Dynasties and the beginning of a new era in Chinese history.