What were the main social classes of early China?

In early China, the main social classes included the aristocracy, peasants, artisans, and merchants. The aristocracy, composed of noble families and landowners, held significant political power and wealth. Peasants, who made up the majority of the population, worked the land and were essential for agriculture. Artisans and merchants occupied lower social status, with artisans producing goods and merchants often viewed with suspicion for their wealth accumulation.