How far back does the documented history of China extend, making it the oldest continuous civilization?

The documented history of China extends back approximately 3500 years, which is significant in establishing it as one of the oldest continuous civilizations in the world. This timeframe marks the beginning of recorded history with the arrival of written records during the Shang dynasty, which lasted from around 1600 to 1046 BCE. In these records, we find early examples of Chinese writing, culture, and governance, providing a foundation for the rich and diverse history that followed.

China’s continuity in civilization is underscored by its ability to maintain cultural and societal structures throughout millennia, with historical records like the Oracle Bones offering insight into the beliefs and practices of ancient Chinese society. The established dynastic cycle and the preservation of cultural elements, including language and tradition, further affirm China's status as an enduring civilization.

The other options, while expressing significant periods, do not accurately represent the extensive timeline of recorded Chinese history; they fall short when contextualized against archaeological findings and historical documentation that firmly align with the 3500-year timeframe.