The Impact of Yangtze River on Chinese Civilization
China is a vast country with complex terrain, where mountains and rivers have always marked the lives of its inhabitants, becoming the foundation of the very idea of Chinese nationhood. Among all rivers, one stands out as the most influential of them all: the Yangtze River, the world’s longest river and the third longest river in Asia. Research tells us that it has played a crucial role in the formation and development of Chinese culture and civilization since ancient times.
Did you know that due to its navigability the Yangtze river could be used as the most important transport route in ancient China? Thanks to the high waters of the Yangtze it was possible to reach places that would otherwise be isolated and far away. Thus, the river was used as a trade route to transport commodities such as rice and silk, while making it easier to connect distant areas and cities.
It’s worth mentioning that the construction of locks along the river occurred in the Song dynasty. Locks were used in order to make navigation easier and to secure the shipping of goods. By improving the navigability of the Yangtze, ancient Chinese people gained access to new markets and greater prosperity.
Food Security for Ancient China
The Yangtze river is of great importance for its annual floods. About 17.5 million hectares of land are irrigated by the Yangtze and its tributaries, providing a significant contribution to Chinese food security. Ancient China was largely supported by its sophisticated irrigation systems, with the Yangtze river acting as its main artery.
Moreover, the construction of the Grand Canal at the end of the 7th century facilitated transportation of goods, making it possible to move them from the “Central Plain” to other regions. This greatly advanced transportation capacity and made agricultural production more efficient.
Early Chinese Exploration
One cannot talk about the Yangtze without mentioning that this river was used in early Chinese exploration and colonization. For example, the Chinese people sailed the Yangtze upstream in search of natural resources and eventually found manganese, which they used to produce steel. This marked the beginning of Chinese metallurgy.
Another great and remarkable achievement enabled by the navigable capabilities of the Yangtze was one of the first challenges early Chinese people faced: their mission to explore the areas beyond the bend of the river and set up the Silk Road. This ancient trade route still connects many cities and countries today, including those located in Southeast Asia.
Impact on Chinese Culture
Not only did the Yangtze River shape Chinese civilization, it also had a deep impact on its culture. Since ancient times, the Yangtze River has inspired Chinese people in the arts such as literature, painting, and poetry. For example, famous Chinese poet Li Bai wrote a poem about his journey on the Yangtze and since then, it has been quoted numerous times.
Many Chinese cities have been built upon the banks of the Yangtze River and it has become an integral part of their identity. The Yangtze is seen as a life source for local communities who rely on it for livelihood and survival. This is demonstrated by their celebration: Lantern Festival, which takes place along both sides of the riverbank.
Environmental Issues
The Yangtze River has experienced extensive human activity throughout its long history. In addition to its importance in providing access to trade and resources, the construction of the Three Gorges Dam sparked a new era of economic growth and development.
However, it is important to point out that the Yangtze River has experienced extreme levels of pollution in recent years. Water pollution and the human-induced changes to its ecosystem has led to the demise of the rare species of animals such as the Chinese sturgeon and the Yangtze river dolphin.
Conclusion
The Yangtze River is one of China’s most important geographic features, having an immense impact on its culture, economy, and environment. Over millennia, thousands of people followed — and still continue to follow — this extraordinary watercourse on their travels. By understanding the Yangtze’s history, it’s clear to see just how the river has shaped the history and development of ancient China and the region.
