The Central Plains (simplified: 中原, traditional: 中原, pinyin: Zhōngyuán, jyutping: zung1 jyun4) refers to the central region of ancient China, encompassing the Yellow River valley and surrounding areas that formed the heartland of Chinese civilisation during the Spring and Autumn period and throughout Chinese history.
Geography
The Central Plains encompassed the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River, including modern-day Henan, southern Hebei, southern Shanxi, and parts of Shandong and Shaanxi provinces. This region was characterised by fertile plains, making it ideal for agriculture and supporting large populations.
The Yellow River (黄河 — Huáng Hé) flowed through the heart of the Central Plains, providing water for irrigation and transportation. The region’s flat terrain and fertile soil made it the agricultural and economic centre of ancient China.
Historical significance
Cradle of Chinese civilisation
The Central Plains served as the cradle of Chinese civilisation, where many of the earliest Chinese states emerged and developed. The region’s agricultural productivity and strategic location made it a centre of political, economic, and cultural activity.
Political centre
Throughout Chinese history, the Central Plains served as the political centre of various dynasties and states. Many capitals were established in this region, reflecting its importance as the heartland of Chinese power and culture.
Cultural significance
The Central Plains were the birthplace of many key aspects of Chinese culture, including Confucianism, Daoism, and other philosophical traditions. The region’s central location made it a meeting point for various cultural influences and a centre of intellectual activity.
In the Spring and Autumn period
During the Spring and Autumn period, the Central Plains were home to numerous states that competed for power and influence. The region’s strategic importance made it a focus of military campaigns and political manoeuvring.
States like Jin, Qi, and others in the Central Plains played crucial roles in the period’s political landscape, while peripheral states like Wu and Yue in the southeast were often viewed as less central to Chinese civilisation.
Behind the scenes
In Sword of the Yue Maiden, the Central Plains represent the traditional centre of Chinese civilisation, contrasting with the peripheral states like Yue and Wu. The region’s significance provides context for understanding the political and cultural relationships between different states during the Spring and Autumn period.
The Central Plains’ role as the heartland of Chinese civilisation helps establish the broader cultural and political context in which the conflicts between Wu and Yue took place.
See also
- Yellow River — The major river flowing through the Central Plains
- Sword of the Yue Maiden locations
External links
- Central Plain on Wikipedia
- Central Plain (Chinese) on Chinese Wikipedia