Guiyang is the capital city of China’s southwestern Guizhou Province. Located in the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau region, it is surrounded by forests and mountains. It is the largest city in the province and the administrative, economic, and cultural center of the region. Guiyang has a long and varied history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Neolithic period.
Early History
The first known inhabitants of the area surrounding Guiyang were the Buyi people, a minority ethnic group who are believed to have settled in the region around 2000 BC. The Buyi people were eventually supplanted by the Baiyue, an ancient Chinese people who were part of the ancient Shu Kingdom. The Shu Kingdom, which was established in the 9th century BC, was ruled by the Shu Emperor.
During the Warring States period (475-221 BC), the area surrounding Guiyang was part of the state of Chu. In 221 BC, the Qin Dynasty unified China and established the province of Guizhou, with its capital at Guiyang. During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), Guiyang became an important trading center and was known as “the Southern Gateway of the Silk Road”.
The Ming and Qing Dynasties
During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD), Guiyang was a major center for the mining and trading of silver and copper. It was also an important center for silk production. During the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911 AD), Guiyang was made the capital of Guizhou Province. It was also an important center for trade and commerce, as well as a center of learning and culture.
Modern History
In the early 20th century, Guiyang was a major center of the Chinese Revolution. In 1949, the People’s Republic of China was established and Guiyang was made the capital of Guizhou Province. Since then, the city has developed rapidly and is now a major industrial and commercial center.
Today, Guiyang is a vibrant and modern city. It is home to a number of historical sites, including the Huaxi Park, the Qingyan Ancient Town, and the Tianhe Tower. It is also a popular tourist destination, with its beautiful scenery, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Guiyang is a city with a long and fascinating history that continues to evolve and grow.