How is the history of China divided?

The history of China is typically divided into several major dynastic periods, beginning with the semi-mythical Xia dynasty (c. 2070–1600 BCE) and followed by notable dynasties such as the Shang, Zhou, Qin, Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing. After the Qing dynasty's fall in 1912, China entered the Republic era, which lasted until the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949. Additionally, historical periods are often categorized into ancient, medieval, and modern eras, reflecting significant political, cultural, and social changes over time. Each division highlights key developments in governance, philosophy, and interactions with other civilizations.