The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China is an iconic structure that has played an important role in Chinese history, culture, and tourism. The wall stretches over 13,000 miles and was built over several centuries, spanning multiple dynasties. Despite its cultural significance, several myths and false beliefs surround the Great Wall of China, leading to misconceptions about its construction, purpose, and effects.
False Belief 1: The Wall can be seen from space
One of the most widespread myths about the Great Wall of China is that it is visible from space. While the wall is undoubtedly a massive structure, it is not visible from the moon or even from low earth orbit. This myth likely originated from a 1932 book that claimed the wall was visible from the moon, but it has since been debunked by astronauts who have traveled to space and observed that the wall is not visible without magnification.
False Belief 2: The Wall is a continuous structure
Another false belief about the Great Wall of China is that it is a continuous wall that runs uninterrupted across the country. In reality, the wall is made up of several sections that were built at different times, by different dynasties, and for different purposes. Some sections of the wall have eroded or been destroyed over time, while others have been restored and maintained for tourism purposes.
False Belief 3: The Wall was built to keep out Mongols
Many people believe that the Great Wall of China was built solely to keep out Mongol invaders. While the wall was certainly used for defense against various nomadic groups, its construction spanned multiple dynasties and was often motivated by political and economic factors rather than military ones. For example, some sections of the wall were built to protect trade routes, while others were used to mark borders or demonstrate imperial power.
False Belief 4: The Wall was built by forced labor
Another common myth is that the Great Wall of China was built entirely by forced labor. While it is true that some sections of the wall were constructed using convict labor or conscripted peasants, many workers were paid for their labor, and some even volunteered to work on the wall as a form of patriotic duty. Furthermore, the construction of the wall was often a community effort, with entire villages contributing to its building.
False Belief 5: The Wall was built in one go
Contrary to popular belief, the Great Wall of China was not built in one go. Rather, its construction spanned several centuries, with different sections being built at different times. The earliest sections of the wall were built in the 7th century BC, while others were constructed as late as the 16th century AD. Moreover, the wall was often repaired and expanded upon over time, with different dynasties adding their own touches to the structure.
False Belief 6: The Wall was built by a single emperor
Another myth about the Great Wall of China is that it was built by a single emperor. In reality, the wall was built by several emperors over the course of several centuries, with each dynasty contributing to its construction in their own way. Some emperors focused on building new sections of the wall, while others focused on repairing existing ones or adding defensive structures like watchtowers and fortresses.
False Belief 7: The Wall is made of brick and stone
Many people believe that the Great Wall of China is made entirely of brick and stone. While some sections of the wall are indeed made of these materials, others are made of earth, wood, and other materials. Some sections of the wall are even made of compacted earth and rubble. The materials used to build the wall varied depending on factors like location, availability, and intended use.
False Belief 8: The Wall was useless in warfare
Contrary to popular belief, the Great Wall of China was not useless in warfare. While it certainly did not provide an impenetrable barrier against invaders, it did serve as a deterrent and helped to slow down invading forces. Moreover, the wall was often used in conjunction with other defensive structures like fortresses and watchtowers, which helped to make it a more effective defensive barrier.
False Belief 9: The Wall is impervious to erosion
Another myth about the Great Wall of China is that it is impervious to erosion. While the wall has certainly held up remarkably well over the centuries, it has not been immune to erosion and weathering. Some sections of the wall have eroded or collapsed over time, while others have been damaged by natural disasters like earthquakes and floods.
False Belief 10: The Wall is the longest wall in the world
Finally, many people believe that the Great Wall of China is the longest wall in the world. While it is certainly one of the longest man-made structures in the world, it is not technically the longest wall. The Dingo Fence in Australia, for example, is longer than the Great Wall of China, stretching over 3,000 miles. Nevertheless, the Great Wall of China remains an impressive feat of engineering and an iconic symbol of Chinese history and culture.
Conclusion: The Great Wall of China is more than a myth
In conclusion, the Great Wall of China is more than just a myth or a tourist attraction. While many false beliefs and myths surround the wall, its construction, history, and cultural significance are complex and multifaceted. By learning more about the Great Wall of China and its true history, we can gain a deeper appreciation for this incredible structure and the rich culture and history that it represents.
