Northern Zhou

Northern Zhou was a state in North China (East Asia) that lasted from 557 to 581 CE, about 24 years. Its people spoke Mongolic languages (Mongol, Khitan, Oirat).

The Yuwen family's dynasty, which reunited the north by conquering the Northern Qi. Its regent Yang Jian took the throne in 581 as founder of the Sui.

See Northern Zhou on the interactive timeline

Facts

Dates: 557 to 581 CE
Duration: 24 years
Type: State
Region: North China, East Asia
Language family: Mongolic
Capital: Chang'an

Came from

Western Wei 535 to 557 CE
Northern Qi 550 to 577 CE

Became

Sui dynasty 581 to 618 CE

Neighbours in East Asia

Silla 57 BCE to 668 CE
Goguryeo 37 BCE to 668 CE
Baekje 18 BCE to 660 CE
Asuka period 538 to 710 CE
Sui dynasty 581 to 618 CE
Zhangzhung c. 500 BCE to 644 CE
Gaya confederacy c. 42 to 562 CE
Tuyuhun c. 285 to 670 CE
Liang dynasty 502 to 557 CE
Chen dynasty 557 to 589 CE

Elsewhere in the world at the same time

Byzantine Empire 395 to 1453 CE, Europe
Byzantine Empire 395 to 1453 CE, Middle East
Ghana Empire (Wagadu) c. 300 to 1200 CE, North and West Africa
Kingdom of Aksum c. 100 to 940 CE, North and West Africa
Moche (Mochica) c. 100 to 800 CE, South America
Tiwanaku c. 400 to 1000 CE, South America
Sasanian Empire 224 to 651 CE, Middle East
First Turkic Khaganate 552 to 603 CE, Central and North Asia

Questions

When did Northern Zhou exist?

557 to 581 CE, about 24 years.

Where was Northern Zhou?

North China, in East Asia. Its capital was Chang'an.

What language did Northern Zhou speak?

Mongolic. This family includes Mongol, Khitan, Oirat.

What came before Northern Zhou?

Western Wei and Northern Qi.

What came after Northern Zhou?

Sui dynasty.