The Great Wall of China’s Purpose
The primary purpose of the Great Wall was to provide a measure of protection and warning against impending northern (and sometimes southern) invasions. The Great Wall also served the purpose of preventing invaders from bringing horses in or stolen goods out.
(original photo by The first contiguous wall was a combination and elongation of previously existing sections by decree of the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, after uniting the divided warring states of China in 221 BC. The purpose of this first Great Wall was to protect against invasions from the Xiongnu empire to the North in what is now modern day Mongolia. It was later extended during the Han Dynasty (2nd century BC - 3rd century AD) to protect against the same empire.
Later sections of the Great Wall were built in succeeding Dynasties to protect against changing Northern powers, including Mongols in the early Ming Dynasty (the 1300s), and Manchus in the twilight of the Ming Dynasty (the 1600s).
All About The Great Wall of China
- History of The Great Wall of China - A history of the Great Wall of China
- Facts About The Great Wall of China - Frequently asked questions & other facts about the Great Wall of China
- Great Wall of China Map - Maps of the Great Wall of China
- Pictures of The Great Wall of China - Assorted pictures of the Great Wall of China
- Great Wall of China Resources - Strongly recommended articles about the Great Wall of China
