Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is a city with a rich and storied history that spans thousands of years. From its early days as the capital of the ancient Shu Kingdom to its modern status as a vibrant cultural and economic hub, Chengdu’s history is a testament to its enduring importance in China. Here’s a look at the key historical periods that have shaped Chengdu into the city it is today.
Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BCE): The First Capital
During the Spring and Autumn period, in the 4th century BCE, the ancient Shu Kingdom reached a significant turning point. Under the rule of the fifth (or ninth, according to some sources) king of the Kai Ming lineage, the kingdom’s capital was relocated to what is now known as Chengdu. The new capital was established in the area around present-day Shangnan Street in Chengdu. This marked the first time that Chengdu became the capital of a kingdom, laying the foundation for its long-standing political and cultural significance.
In 256 BCE, during the 59th year of King Nan of the Zhou Dynasty, a monumental engineering feat was undertaken in Chengdu. Li Bing, the governor of Shu Commandery, initiated the construction of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a project that still functions today. This system transformed the Chengdu Plain into a fertile and prosperous region, leading to Chengdu being hailed as the “Land of Abundance” (天府之国).
Han Dynasty to the Three Kingdoms Period (206 BCE-280 CE): A Hub of Learning and Power
In 143 BCE, during the reign of Emperor Jing of the Han Dynasty, Chengdu saw the establishment of the Wen Weng Stone Chamber (文翁石室), the first state-sponsored school in China. Founded by the local governor, Wen Weng, this institution became a pioneering center for education, reflecting Chengdu’s growing cultural influence.
The city’s prominence continued into the Three Kingdoms period. In 221 CE, Liu Bei, a key figure of the Shu-Han Kingdom, declared himself emperor and established Chengdu as his capital. This marked the beginning of the Shu-Han Kingdom, which, along with the states of Wei and Wu, formed the Three Kingdoms era, a significant and romanticized period in Chinese history. Chengdu remained a central stage for military and political activities until the kingdom’s fall in 263 CE when it was conquered by the Wei state.
Tang and Song Dynasties (618-1279): Cultural Flourishing and Innovation
Chengdu’s significance continued to grow during the Tang Dynasty. In 756 CE, Emperor Xuanzong fled to Chengdu to escape the An Lushan Rebellion. This move turned Chengdu into a refuge for people from the Central Plains, contributing to the city’s economic and cultural development. Chengdu became a vibrant center of culture and commerce, attracting scholars, artisans, and traders.
In the Northern Song Dynasty, another significant milestone in Chengdu’s history occurred. In 1008 CE, the world’s first paper currency, known as “Jiaozi” (交子), was issued in Chengdu. This revolutionary financial innovation facilitated trade and commerce, further solidifying Chengdu’s role as a major economic center in China.
Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368): The Establishment of Sichuan Province
During the Yuan Dynasty, in 1286, the central government established the “Sichuan Branch Secretariat” (四川等处行中书省) in Chengdu, formally integrating the region into the central administration of China. This period marked the beginning of Chengdu’s role as the political and military headquarters of Sichuan Province, a status it continues to hold today.
Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1912): A City of Conflict and Reconstruction
The Ming and Qing Dynasties were periods of both turmoil and development for Chengdu. In 1644, Zhang Xianzhong, a rebel leader, captured Chengdu and declared himself emperor of the Daxi Kingdom, renaming Chengdu as Xijing (Western Capital). However, his reign was short-lived, as Qing forces soon overran the city, leading to intense battles in the region.
In 1654, during the reign of Emperor Shunzhi of the Qing Dynasty, Sichuan Province was officially established as an administrative unit, with Chengdu as its capital. This solidified Chengdu’s role as the political and cultural heart of the region.
Modern Era (1912-Present): Revolution and Renewal
The early 20th century was a period of significant change for Chengdu. In June 1911, the city became a center of the Sichuan Railway Protection Movement, a precursor to the Xinhai Revolution that eventually led to the fall of the Qing Dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China.
In 1921, Chengdu and Huayang counties were merged to form the modern city of Chengdu. This marked the beginning of Chengdu’s transformation into a modern metropolis. During the Second Sino-Japanese War, Chengdu served as a vital rear base, contributing significantly to the war effort.
On December 27, 1949, the People’s Liberation Army captured Chengdu, marking the end of the Chinese Civil War in mainland China. The following month, the Chengdu Municipal People’s Government was established, heralding a new era of development for the city.
Today, Chengdu stands as a vibrant metropolis that blends its rich historical heritage with modern dynamism. From its ancient roots as the capital of the Shu Kingdom to its current status as a major cultural and economic center, Chengdu continues to play a pivotal role in China’s history and development.