Anthology 1970 - 1998

The Great Wall of China is a series of fortifications made of stone, brick, tamped earth, wood, and other materials. It is a symbol of ancient Chinese civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The wall was built to protect the Chinese states and empires against the raids and invasions of the various nomadic groups of the Eurasian Steppe. It stretches from Shanhaiguan in the east to Lop Lake in the west, along an arc that roughly delineates the southern edge of Inner Mongolia. The main line of the wall is about 13,171 miles long, and an additional 5,370 miles of branches and spurs make the wall's total length 18,641 miles.

Construction of the Great Wall began in the 7th century BC, with the majority of the construction taking place during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The wall was made using a variety of construction materials, including bricks, stone, and packed earth. The construction of the wall involved the use of advanced architectural techniques, including watchtowers, battlements, and fortresses.

The Great Wall played a significant role in Chinese history as it provided protection from invaders and facilitated the imposition of duties on goods transported along the Silk Road. It also allowed for the control of immigration and emigration. Additionally, it served as a symbol of the power and prestige of the Chinese emperors.

The Great Wall is not without its controversies, as the wall also served to divide and control the movement of the Chinese people, leading to the loss of lives and limiting freedom. It is estimated that millions of workers died during the construction of the wall due to the harsh working conditions and lack of resources.

Today, the Great Wall of China is a popular tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year. Some sections of the wall have been restored and are accessible to tourists, while other sections remain in a state of disrepair. The most visited section of the wall is located near Beijing and is known as Badaling. Other popular sections include Mutianyu, Jinshanling, and Simatai.

The Great Wall of China is an iconic symbol of China's rich history and continues to be a source of pride and fascination for people around the world. Its vast and imposing presence serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and resilience of the ancient Chinese civilization.

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