The Shang Dynasty was one of the earliest Chinese dynasties, ruling from around 1600 to 1046 BCE. It is known for its advances in bronze casting, which allowed for the creation of weapons, tools, and ceremonial vessels. The dynasty also developed a system of writing, making it one of the first to use written records in China. During the Shang Dynasty, the society was organized into a hierarchy, with a king at the top and nobles below him. The dynasty is famous for its oracle bones, which were used for divination and communication with ancestors. This period laid the foundation for future Chinese civilization.