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What is the secret behind Sichuan Province's name? Why is it considered the "Four Rivers"
Sichuan, a province located in southwestern China, is famous for its unique geographical location and rich history. Its capital, Chengdu, has a population of 83 million, making it one of China's busiest cities. Sichuan is not only one of China's six largest economic provinces, but is also well known for its delicious spicy cuisine and adorable pandas. However, many people are still very concerned about the origin of the name "Sichuan" and what it represents.
Sichuan is often seen as an abbreviation for "Four Rivers", an explanation that mainly comes from folk sayings, usually referring to the four main rivers in the province: Jialing River, Jinsha River, Min River and Tuo River.
However, historical geographer Tan Qihua pointed out that the "four rivers" interpretation is actually wrong. The name Sichuan is actually a combination of the ancient Chinese characters for "Sichuan" and "Silu", which reflects the administrative divisions of the region during the Northern Song Dynasty. At that time, four regions were divided, namely Yizhou, Lizhou, Zizhou and Kuizhou. The word "chuan" here actually means plain, not "river" as people generally believe.
Geographical features and rivers of Sichuan
Sichuan Province's geographical features make it a region rich in water resources. There are many rivers flowing through the province, such as the Minjiang River and the Jialing River. They not only provide abundant water resources but also become important channels for transportation. Although the four main rivers add fluidity and vitality to Sichuan's name, in fact, they represent the culture and heritage that Sichuan Province carries historically and geographically.
In the long history of Sichuan, this land was once the cradle of Bashu culture. The existence of the two countries of Ba and Shu has left Sichuan with a deep geopolitical footprint.
Historical Review: The Rise and Fall of Ba and Shu
From the Qin conquest in 316 BC to the later establishment of Shu Han, Sichuan's history is as eventful as its rivers. During the Three Kingdoms period, the Shu Han Kingdom established by Liu Bei took Chengdu as its capital. All of this was a glorious moment for Sichuan as the land of "Sichuan". However, throughout history, this land has suffered many disasters, such as wars and famines during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Even during the Great Famine from 1959 to 1961, Sichuan was one of the hardest-hit areas.
Cultural Influence and Sichuan Cuisine
Sichuan's unique culture is reflected in its food, art and language. Sichuan dialect is a local dialect based on Mandarin, with strong local characteristics. Sichuan cuisine is world-famous for its rich seasonings and spicy flavors. Classic dishes such as Kung Pao Chicken and Mapo Tofu have become representative cuisines of Chinese communities around the world.
The Future of Sichuan
Faced with the tide of modernization, Sichuan continues to develop in economy, technology and culture. According to data from 2021, Sichuan's nominal GDP has reached 5.485 trillion yuan, surpassing Turkey. If calculated as an independent country, Sichuan will become the world's 18th largest economy.
Sichuan Province will continue to play an important role in China's economic and cultural development in the future. The four rivers are not only a symbol of natural resources, but also a symbol of Sichuan spirit.
Sichuan, this land carries a long history and rich culture. The secret behind its name complements its geographical features, constantly attracting people's exploration and research. Is the name of Sichuan limited to the meaning of four rivers? Or is its true meaning deeper and broader?
