Laughing Legends of Chinese History Quirky Tales f
Laughing Legends of Chinese History: Quirky Tales from the Past
The Great Wall's Humble Beginnings
The Great Wall, one of China's most iconic landmarks, has a humble beginning that is often overlooked. It wasn't built as a single, continuous structure but rather as multiple fortifications along the northern borders by several Chinese dynasties. The earliest known wall was constructed during the 7th century BC by several small states to protect themselves from nomadic tribes. Over time, these walls were connected and expanded upon until Emperor Qin Shi Huang unified them into one long wall in 221 BC.
Emperors and Their Pets
Emperors in ancient China often kept exotic pets for companionship and entertainment. One such emperor was Wu Zetian, who ruled as the only woman to ever hold the title of Emperor of China in her own right (690-705 AD). She had a fondness for elephants and even had an elephant-shaped throne made for herself. Another example is Emperor Kangxi (1661-1722 AD), who owned over 100 dogs including Pugs, which he bred himself.
Tea Drinking Etiquette
Tea drinking has been an integral part of Chinese culture since at least the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). However, tea drinking etiquette was formalized much later under the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912 AD). During this time period it became customary to serve tea using elaborate ceremonies with specific rules about seating arrangements and table manners.
Ancient Astronomical Discoveries
China has a rich history of astronomical discoveries dating back thousands of years ago when astronomers used primitive telescopes made out of bronze or wood called "fire drums" to observe celestial bodies like comets and supernovae during Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE). Later on during Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 CE), astronomer Guo Shoujing discovered that Earth orbits around Sun leading him to develop new calendar system known as "Shoushi Calendar".
5.Food For Thought: Ancient Culinary Delights
Ancient Chinese cuisine may seem simple compared to today’s offerings but it held its own unique charm with dishes like Dongpo Pork named after famous Song dynasty poet Su Dongpo being popular even today . In addition there were many other delicacies such as Beggar's Chicken where chicken would be wrapped inside lotus leaves filled with rice before being buried underground overnight giving it distinct smoky flavor while keeping meat moist .
