Civilization of Yellow River
Last Update : 5/7/2007 2:44:13 AM - Yellow River, often referred to as the Mother River of China, is the cradle of the Chinese culture. For more than 3,000 years, the Yellow River basin was the political, economic, and cultural center of the nation. Due to it’s natural splendor and the deep cultural heritage it represents, the Yellow River continues to be a point of pride for people throughout China.
- Last Update : 4/7/2008 10:41:44 PM
- Throughout the Paleolithic Era, the Yellow River basin was inhabited by hunters and gatherers (who later developed ways of creating fire and farming). Approximately 4,000 years ago, some blood clannish tribes formed in the area, which began vying for control. Of these, the Yandi and the Huangdi tribes were most powerful. In time, the Huangdi won control of the Yellow River Basin and united the other tribes under their leadership (and taking on a new name, 'Huaxia'). Subsequent generations often refer to Huangdi as the ancestors of the Chinese nation, claiming to be descendents of either the Huangdi or Yanhuang tribe.
- Last Update : 4/7/2008 10:42:13 PM
- From the time of China's first dynasty - Xia (21st-16th Century BC) to the Northern Song Dynasty (386-581), all of the central dynasties were focused in this area. Of the seven ancient capital cities of China, four were located in this area: Xian in Shaanxi, Anyang, Kaifeng, and Luoyang in Henan. Anyang, the former Yindu of Shang Dynasty (16th-11th Century BC), was one of the world's three cultural hubs- others included Egypt and Babylon. Xian (formerly Changan), remained the country's capital for more than 1,000 years - throughout 13 dynasties. Luoyang, called the Ancient Capital of 9 Dynasties, controlled the country for more than 900 years. Kaifeng, formerly Bianliang, reined for over 200 years.
- Last Update : 5/7/2007 2:46:46 AM
- The Yellow River area is also renowned for its early developments in science, technology and culture. Bronze appeared here in 2,000 BC, and iron melting emerged around the Yellow River over 2,000 years before it was discovered in Europe. The Oracle Bone Script of Shang Dynasty pioneered the record of characters in China. The 'Four Invention' of China, that is, papermaking, printing, gunpowder and compass, were also invented in this area. In addition, the Book of Songs, Tang Poems, Song Ci (poetry of Song Dynasty), and many other works of classic literature originated here. After the Northern Song Dynasty, the political center of China transferred to the south, but the influence of Yellow River area remains far-reaching.
- Last Update : 5/7/2007 2:46:59 AM
- The numerous cultural relics preserved in this area speak volumes about the prosperity and prestige that the Yellow River as seen. Visiting this area is a must for all those who are interested in Chinese history and culture.
