Yu the Great is generally considered the founder of the Xia Dynasty in China. This dynasty -- which lasted from the 21st century B.C. to the 17th century B.C. -- included seventeen kings and over fourteen generations of rulers. Sometimes identified as one of the Three August Ones and the Five Emperors, Yu is best known for creating flood control techniques to control China's massive rivers and lakes. In fact, he was so successful at this task that the previous ruler, Shun, passed the throne to him instead of his own son.