The Spring and Autumn period (approximately 770-476 BCE) was a significant era in ancient Chinese history, marked by the decline of the Zhou Dynasty. It is named after the historical text, the Spring and Autumn Annals, which chronicles events during this time. This period saw the fragmentation of power as various states vied for dominance, leading to political instability and warfare. During this time, notable philosophical schools emerged, including Confucianism and Daoism, which greatly influenced Chinese culture and society. The period set the stage for the subsequent Warring States period, where the competition among states intensified, ultimately leading to the unification of China under the Qin Dynasty.