The Chou Dynasty, also known as the Zhou Dynasty, was a period of Chinese history that lasted from 1046 BC to 256 BC. This time saw the rise and fall of several different states and rulers, and is often regarded as a time of great political and cultural change. There are several synonyms for the Chou Dynasty, including the Zhou Dynasty, the Western Zhou Dynasty, the Eastern Zhou Dynasty, and the Spring and Autumn Period. Each of these terms refers to a slightly different period within the broader Chou Dynasty, and can help to give a more nuanced understanding of this important period in Chinese history.