Beijing is one of the four ancient cities of China (together with
Xian, Luoyang, Nanjing), the best preserved, and famous around
the world. Beijing is also known as a cradle of humanity. As
early as 700,000 years ago, Peking Man lived in Zhoukoudian area
of Beijing.
Beijing City was established over 3,000 years ago and was called
Jin City in the Western Zhou Dynasty (11th century BC - 771 BC).
Ever since Emperor Qin united China in 221 BC, Beijing has
played an important role in north China. It was the capital city
in the Liao (916-1125), Jin (1115-1234), Yuan (1271-1368), Ming
(1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. During these 800
years, 34 emperors lived and ruled here. The world renowned
Forbidden City was built during this period. At the end of the
Qing Dynasty, World War I broke out. Beijing became the focus of
invaders. The war disrupted the society. Many residences of
royal families were robbed and burned down. After that, the
whole country was reduced to the status of semi-colonial and
semi-feudal society. It wasn't until October 1st, 1949 that the
People's Republic of China was founded. Beijing is known as the
capital city of the prosperous new country which has flared into
importance in Asia.
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