For what purpose did writing begin in china?

Writing in China began primarily for administrative purposes. Initially, it wasn't used for literature or storytelling, but rather for keeping records of:

* Taxation: Tracking the collection of taxes and tribute from different regions and individuals was a major driver.

* Inventory: Managing goods and resources within the state.

* Royal decrees and announcements: Communicating imperial edicts and directives.

* Ritual practices: Recording details of ceremonies and religious observances.

While other uses developed later, the earliest forms of Chinese writing were fundamentally tools for governing and managing a complex, expanding empire.