Development History of the Grand Canal Cities - Volume 1 - Liu Shilin

This book presents a comprehensive account of the history of the Grand Canal of China, which is over 6,000 miles long and more than 2,500 years old. The Grand Canal of China flows through Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Henan, Shandong, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang, connecting the five major water systems of the Hai River, Huai River, Yellow River, Yangtze River, and Qiantang River, as well as the Central Plains culture, Jiangnan culture, and other cultural resources. The book's core content revolves around 21 pivotal cities along the canal. It draws upon a rich tapestry of authentic historical accounts, local chronicles, poetic traditions, Ming and Qing-era novels, and a plethora of other vivid materials. It encompasses a comprehensive range of subjects, including culture, geography, commerce, water conservancy, and other aspects related to the Grand Canal. It examines the historical and cultural resources associated with the Grand Canal, providing a systematic organization of the cultural assets and modes of life that have developed along its route. The text also explores the significant role that this waterway has played in shaping the spiritual identity of the Chinese people and the nation as a whole.