Agriculture: The vast majority of the population was engaged in farming. Farmers grew crops such as rice, wheat, millet, and soybeans.
Artisans: Artisans created a wide variety of goods, including pottery, textiles, furniture, and metalwork.
Merchants: Merchants bought and sold goods, both locally and internationally.
Scholars and officials: Scholars studied and taught儒家思想, the philosophical and ethical system that shaped Chinese society for centuries. Officials served in the government, managing everything from local affairs to military campaigns.
Soldiers: Soldiers protected China from invaders and maintained internal order.
Servants: Servants worked in the homes of wealthy families, performing tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and caring for children.
Entertainers: Entertainers performed music, dance, and acrobatics for the enjoyment of the wealthy and powerful.
Religious leaders: Religious leaders, such as priests and shamans, presided over religious ceremonies and rituals.
Doctors and healers: Doctors and healers used traditional Chinese medicine to treat illnesses and injuries.
These are just a few examples of the many different occupations that existed in ancient China. The job market was highly stratified, with jobs at the top of the hierarchy, such as scholar-officials, being highly respected and well-paid, while jobs at the bottom, such as servants, were often poorly paid and looked down upon.