As
a foreigner, I have always been fascinated by the intricate and complex history of China. There are many little-known facts and stories that often go unnoticed, but they provide insight into the unique culture and society of this ancient civilization. Here are some historical cold facts that have caught my attention and to some extent, even fascinated me about China.
1. The Tale of a Time Measuring Device The history of time in ancient China is fascinating, but one of the lesser-known facts is about the invention of a time-measuring device, the clepsydra, which dates back to the Han Dynasty. The clepsydra used the principle of gravity to measure time, with a stream of water slowly draining from one bowl to another, indicating the passing of time. This device was widely used by the government officials and helped create a uniform measurement of time throughout the country.
2. The Use of Paper Money China is known for its inventions, and one of the most significant inventions that played a crucial role in the global economy was the development of paper money. During the Song Dynasty, a variety of materials were used for currency, including shells and copper coins. Later, the government invented paper money for convenient transaction purposes, which quickly spread throughout the country and has been adopted worldwide.
3. The Legendary Silk Road The Silk Road is a well-known trade route that connected China to the West for centuries, but something that often gets forgotten is how the route played a pivotal role in the spread of various religions like Buddhism and Islam, as well as goods such as silk, spices, and tea. The route was frequently used by merchants, adventurers, and scholars, and it helped establish cultural and economic relationships between Asia, Europe, and Africa, encouraging global trade and cultural exchanges.
4. The Forbidden City's Origin One of the most famous landmarks in China, the Forbidden City, has a fascinating story behind its construction. It was constructed during the Ming Dynasty, and approximately a million workers took 15 years to build the massive structure, resulting in the employment of around 70,000 skilled craftsmen. The city got its name because it was off-limits to anyone except the royal family, their consorts, and trusted advisors, and any unauthorized person who entered would face the death penalty. Final Words China has an incredibly diverse and rich history and culture, and these cold facts provide a glimpse into the country's past. These lesser-known facts highlight the innovative and creative nature of ancient China and help understand how it has positively impacted the world. Understanding China's history is crucial to understand its culture, politics, and customs, and by learning new things and diving deep into the country's history, we can comprehend the unique identity of this fascinating nation.