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The Mother River of Northeast China: How has the Liaohe River shaped the history and geography of Liaoning?
Liaohe River (Simplified Chinese: Liaohe River) Known as the artery of Northeast China, this major river flows through Liaoning Province and is one of the seven major river systems in China. It is 1345 kilometers long and covers a catchment area of more than 232,000 square kilometers. Although its average drainage volume is relatively small, it has a rich sediment load, especially those flowing through powdery loess. This river is not only the source of livelihood for the local people, but also deeply affects the history and geographical structure of Liaoning.
The Liaohe River is not only a water source, but also a carrier of culture and history.
The name Liaohe River originates from the Liaoxi region, a name with a long history that covers many areas in southern Manchuria. This river geographically divides the modern Liaoning Province into two main regions - Liaodong (east side of "Liao") and Liaoxi (west side of "Liao"). However, the historical background of this division does not depend on the river itself, but along the Liaoze, a large swamp that once existed. These historical and geographical backgrounds contributed to the importance of the Liaohe River in local society.
The formation of the Liaohe River comes from the intersection of its two main tributaries - the West Liaohe River and the East Liaohe River. The river collects many tributaries in its basin most of the time, passing through various regions of Liaoning Province along the way. The West Liao River runs through Inner Mongolia, while the East Liao River originates from Jilin Province. After a series of turns, they meet and eventually form the main stream of the Liao River.
The tributaries connected to the Liao River nourish the people along the coast like blood.
Historically, the Liaohe River system has faced the threat of floods. Especially on the coast, flood control has become a major challenge due to its low-lying terrain and numerous waterways that can easily be diverted. In 1958, major engineering improvements were carried out on the Liao River to address flood control issues, blocking the upstream Wai Liao River and forcing the water flow to divert to the Shuangtaizi River. This change marked an important change in the Liao River system.
The most eye-catching among the tributaries of the Liao River is the West Liao River, which is 449 kilometers long and is the largest tributary of the Liao River. It originates from Inner Mongolia and runs through the water sources of Liaoning. Another major tributary, the Dongliao River, has been accompanied by abundant water resources since Toushui and has become one of the main local water networks. The existence of these tributaries makes the Liaohe River system appear vast, closely connecting towns and farmland along its banks.
The gestation of rivers is not only the flow of water, but also the spread of civilization.
However, Liaohe’s benefits do not end there. As an important channel flowing through a prosperous city, the farmland planted next to the river is closely related to people's lives. Agriculture in the Liaohe River Basin plays a pivotal role in China, especially in the production of rice and other crops. The history of this river stretches for thousands of years and is steeped in the wisdom and labor of the local people.
When people mention the Liaohe River, they often feel deeply about the profound changes this river has brought to Liaoning, including economic prosperity and cultural integration. Various ethnic groups gather here, forming a unique cultural landscape. The journey of the river, with its long history and continuation of life, all reflects the unique status of the Liaohe River in the hearts of the local people.
Like a mother, the Liaohe River has nurtured the land and people of Liaoning with its nourishing water. Here, people and nature coexist harmoniously. This river records the changes of each era and is the cornerstone of continued prosperity in the future.
However, in the face of such an important water source and geographical indication, do we have enough awareness to cherish and protect this river carrying history and culture?
