The Great Wall of China represents one of the most significant architectural and structural achievements in human history. The wall stretches across different regions in northern China, symbolising strength, patience, and has been maintained over the years. It reflects the power of politics, military, economic and cultural evolution of the country. The wall serves not only a defensive purpose but also serves as evidence of the ingenuity, labour and resilience of the ancient and modern Chinese people.
Origin of The Great Wall Of China
The story of the Great Wall of China dates back to the 7th century BCE, during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States eras (475-221 BCE). In this era, the country was separated into different competing states. In order to protect themselves from rivals and the nomadic tribes who came from the north, walls were constructed, which were made primarily of rammed earth and other materials such as wood and stones. During this period, walls were not connected across different regions but served for defensive purposes for each region.
The first time the Great Wall was unified was during the regime of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, who started the Qin Dynasty in 221 BCE after making the country come together. After the locals noticed the threat from the northern nomadic tribes, especially the Xiongnu, the emperor instructed that the connection and extension of the existing walls be made to form a more comprehensive defence system. Innumerable soldiers, peasants and prisoners were gathered to work on the extension of the Wall. Conditions such as weather, hunger, and the tediousness of the work were not favorable which led to the death of some labourers. The foundation was laid during the Qin Dynasty, and that would eventually become the Great Wall of China.
Development Through The Dynasties
After the fall of the Qin Dynasty, the Han Dynasty took over the project (206 BCE – 220 CE). They expanded it westward to protect routes along the Silk Road, which joined China to Central Asia and beyond. In this period, the Wall served not only military purposes but was also used for safeguarding the financial interests by guarding the merchants and led to promoting trade.
Over the years, different dynasties had either maintained or expanded, or even abandoned the project, depending on their military needs and political stability. The Northern Wei, Northern Qi, and Sui Dynasties partnered together in the construction of the Wall. Although the most well-preserved and well-known sections were built during the Ming Dynasty from 1368 through to 1644.
One of the issues faced by the Ming rulers was a consistent threat from the Mongols after the fall of the Yuan Dynasty. They were determined not to allow another foreign conquest. The Ming rulers used materials that were totally different from those of the past rulers; they used materials like bricks, stone blocks and tiles, which made it much more rigid and lasting. Features like Watchtowers, fortresses and signal towers were added and made soldiers constantly as to monitor any strange movement day and night.
Tourism and Preservation
One of the top places where tourists or travellers love to visit is the Great Wall of China. Innumerable people around the globe have visited China every year to see the majestic structure. Some sections near Beijing, such as Badaling and Mutianyu, have been restored and are easily accessible to travellers.
For transportation, there are different means of transportation at each entrance. Travellers who love to use the public bus or train from Beijing to the Great Wall of China for one way will have to pay approximately ¥12 – ¥30, and this is one of the cheapest ways if you wish to travel alone.
Another means is the use of a Tourist Shuttle Bus for a round trip, which costs about ¥15 – ¥30. This is often used at the Mutianyu bus stop to the Great Wall of China entrance.
Another transportation means is Taxi or Ride-hail such as Didi, which is more convenient, but the cost differs with time or distance. A round trip around the Great Wall of China costs from ¥250 to ¥650.
The use of Private car Hire or guided transport costs ¥500 – ¥1200+. This can be heavy on an individual’s pocket, but it can be made easier if the price can be paid by a group of people.
There are some challenges faced at the Great Wall of China, some are natural erosion, weather conditions, and some parts of the wall have been damaged by Human activities. The Chinese Government has ensured to protect and restore the damaged section of the wall.
The Great Wall of China was recognized by the UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. This made it gain global significance as a masterpiece of human creativity and determination.
Military and Significance
The major reason for the construction of the Great Wall of China was for defence and also to protect the agricultural societies from the raids and invasions by the nomadic groups in the northern area. These nomads, which included Turks, Mongols and Xiongnu, were all skilled horsemen who had the ability to launch quick attacks on the country’s settlements.
The wall was not preventing the invasion of the nomads, but it reduced the enemy’s pace and also provided a psychological barrier. It serves as a place where border crossing, regulated trade and immigration take place.
Myth
A popular myth rumoured about the Great Wall of China is that the Wall can be seen from the Moon with the naked eye. In reality, that’s a false truth. However, the length of the wall stretches over different areas in China, and it’s narrow and also combines both the surrounding landscapes. This makes it so difficult to be seen from the outer world with the naked eye.
Legacy
Beyond its physical features, the Wall symbolises the Spirit of a civilisation that cherishes security, unity and protection. However, the modern means of warfare have made the walls out of date, but the walls continue to inspire awe and admiration and also remind the locals of the labours of their ancestors.
CONCLUSION
The Great Wall of China is more than a historical defensive structure, but is a monumental evidence of China’s ancient resilience and ingenuity. From the onset, when it was still in fragments, to the final construction under the Ming Dynasty using different materials, the Wall reflects the changing needs and ambitions of Chinese society. In the modern era, it not only represents a National treasure but also a shared heritage of humanity, reminding the world of what unity, agreement and determination can accomplish.
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