商朝, also known as the Shang Dynasty, was an ancient Chinese dynasty that lasted from around 1600 to 1046 BCE. It is recognized as one of the earliest recorded dynasties in Chinese history, known for its advances in bronze metallurgy, writing, and urban development. The capital city, Anyang, was a significant center for political and cultural activities. The Shang Dynasty is notable for its use of oracle bones, which were used for divination and record-keeping. The ruling class was composed of kings and nobles, who practiced ancestor worship and held elaborate rituals. The dynasty eventually fell to the Zhou Dynasty around 1046 BCE, marking a significant transition in Chinese history.