China is a large country in East Asia with over a billion people, making it the world's most populous nation. It has one of the oldest continuous civilizations on Earth, stretching back thousands of years. Ancient China gave the world inventions like paper, gunpowder, the compass, and printing. The country is known for the Great Wall, a massive fortification built over centuries to protect against invasions, and for its distinctive cuisine, art, and traditions.

Today, China is a major world power with enormous manufacturing industries and rapidly growing cities. Many products you use daily, from toys to electronics, are made in China. The country has a complex government system very different from America's democracy, with the Communist Party controlling most decisions.

The word china (with a lowercase c) also refers to delicate dishes and cups made from a special kind of clay called porcelain. This material was perfected in China over a thousand years ago and became so famous that English speakers named it after the country. Your family might have fine china they use only for special occasions, dishes so thin and smooth they seem almost translucent when you hold them up to the light.