The cultures shifted from a primarily agrarian economic base to one that used metal as a means to craft practical and ritual objects. In addition to the ritual cauldrons that were emblematic of the Xia dynasty, other uses of advanced metallurgical techniques include the manufacturing of "jue," vessels used to hold a grain alcohol beverage commonly translated as "wine," (Class unit: 12). In fact, bronze objects were cast en masse during the Xia and Shang dynasties (Class unit: 12). Warfare over metals, especially tin and copper, transformed the balance of power in the region (Class unit: 12). Commoners were frequently conscripted for military service during the Shang dynasty ("The Evolution of Complex Societies in China,": 446). Bronze casting allowed Shang rulers to have access to advanced weaponry. Their bronze weapons, their centralized leadership, and their control over a large number of peasant soldiers enabled the Shang to become the first expansionist Chinese civilization. Formally believed to be a mythical city, the now excavated Erlitou is considered to be the hub of Xia and Shang culture. Characteristic of the Erlitou excavation are the raised platforms made of rammed earth. Assumed to be the residences of elite Xia and Shang, the entrances to the residences face south as do many modern Chinese structures...
Some researchers refer to the residences as "palaces" because of their size and scope as well as their apparently being the residences of the aristocracy ("The Evolution of Complex Societies in China,": 443). Erlitou tombs offer further evidence of class stratification in Xia and Shang culture, as most of the excavated tombs were constructed for an elite ruling class.
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