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Waterways of the World: The Grand Canal
In a quest to explore waterways that traverse continents, our journey inevitably leads us to China's Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal the oldest and longest navigable canal on earth. Stretching across 1,115 miles from Beijing in northern China to Hangzhou in the south, this remarkable structure weaves through five provinces and five rivers.
History
The Grand Canal first took shape over two millennia ago, with its earliest sections constructed as far back as 468 BC between the Yangtze River basin and Jiangsu province. It was expanded significantly under the Qin Dynasty 221 BC to enhance imperial control in this region of vibrant activity by the Yangtze delta. During Emperor Yang's reign, beginning in 581 AD, four additional adjacent canals were built alongside the Grand Canal with a workforce totaling over three million people including slaves and criminals contributing to these projects; roughly two and a half million tragically lost their lives.
The Yuan Dynasty 1271-1368 further expanded this canal system by 47 miles to connect North China with South China, effectively increasing the capacity for grn transportation to Beijing's capital. The Grand Canal was crucial in mntning food supply chns during its use until the 19th century.
The gradual decline and abandonment after widespread floods and political unrest led to the neglect of northern sections from the late Qing Dynasty onwards. However, beginning in 1934 through extensive Chinese government efforts totaling over two decades, the canal was revitalized between Huyin and the Yangtze; it saw ship locks constructed for medium-sized steamers with its extensive dredging and rebuilding.
Geography
The land surrounding the Grand Canal is rich in agriculture with bustling transportation sectors. Coal mines dot the major river systems connected to this canal, supporting industrial cities that are now thriving tourist attractions. These towns offer visitors a range of experiences from historical relics to breathtaking natural wonders, including the iconic Great Wall in Beijing.
Impact
The persistent innovation and meticulous mntenance of the Grand Canal have earned it UNESCO World Heritage Site status:
The Grand Canal is a testament to China's unique tradition of canal management through the Caoyun system its origins, prosperity, adaptations across dynasties and capitals, and disappearance during the 20th century. It played a pivotal role in linking peasant economies with imperial courts by supplying food to both the populace and troops.
Notably, it has also been traversed by famous travelers like Marco Polo in the 13th century alongside other renowned explorers throughout history. Presently, efforts are being made to enhance access from surrounding cities as well as towns along connected smaller rivers.
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Ancient Chinese Grand Canal Navigation System Longest Navigable Canal in the World Beijing Hangzhou Waterway History Imperial Food Supply Chain Route Chinas UNESCO World Heritage Site Revolutionary Canal Maintenance Efforts