After thousands of years of vicissitudes of life, we have entered a new era -- the revolution of information technology is profoundly changing the face and pattern of all fields of human society. Against this social background, the study of ancient Chinese history has shown unprecedented vigor and vitality.
Among them, the history of this period in the early and middle Ming Dynasty is particularly eye-catching, especially the interaction between China and Liuzhou during this period has attracted the attention of many scholars and scholars. Due to its special historical background, this unique historical heritage has irreplaceable cultural and academic value, so it is worthy of our in-depth exploration.
Since ancient times, the Ryukyu Islands, located in the southeast coastal area, have been one of the southeastern gateways of our countryThere is a close connection between the secular and other fields. After the establishment of the Ming Dynasty, with the continuous changes in the domestic and foreign situation and the gradual consolidation of the regime, the Ming Dynasty began to strengthen its governance in the Ryukyus to ensure the best governance
However, it is worth noting that before this, the interaction between China and Ryukyu was not as frequent as it is now. Therefore, to a certain extent, the beginning of the Ming Dynasty can be regarded as a key stage in the gradual development of Sino-Ryukine relations from cold to hot, tending to stability, and gradually developing. In order to fully understand the importance of this historical period, this article will devote itself to the characteristics and influencing factors of Sino-Lunar relations in the early Ming Dynasty and their far-reaching impact on the political, economic, and cultural development of the two countries.
In order to understand the evolution of the development of Sino-Lauric relations in the early Ming Dynasty and the deep-seated factors behind it, we must comprehensively examine the historical data from multiple perspectives such as mutual visits, exchanges and cultural exchanges between the two sides.
In the early and middle Ming Dynasty, China and North Korea sent envoys to each other for friendly visits, which not only promoted mutual understanding and understanding, but also laid a solid foundation for the deepening of relations between the two countries. With the increasingly close exchanges between countries, and at the same time, a series of important diplomatic documents and records were born in the corresponding period, which are undoubtedly precious treasures that reveal the true face of that period of history.
In addition, cultural exchange is also an important indicator of China-Ryukyu relations. In many fields, art, literature, and religious beliefs have become bridges for building friendly relations between China and Ryuk
The most representative evidence in this regard is the negotiation between China and Ryukyu recorded in the ancient Ryukyu book "The Treasure Case of the Past Dynasties" and the ancient Chinese document "Spring and Autumn Collection of the Sixteen Kingdoms". These documents will strongly prove that under the rapid development of industries in the Ming Dynasty, the cultural exchanges between China and Liuzhou have reached a new height of unprecedented prosperity.
1.The geographical factors between China and Ryukyu and the historical origins caused by them
Although China and Ryukyu are located on opposite sides of the world, they are geographically close and have maintained close ties throughout geography and history. Chinese culture has had a profound and lasting impact on the Ryukyus, which is mainly reflected in the following aspects:
First of all, the geographical proximity has laid a solid foundation for the development of China-Ryukine relations. The Ryukyu Islands are located on the west coast of the East Asian Pacific OceanLocated in the southeast of Chinese mainland, although it is far from Chinese mainland and other neighboring countries, because of its superior maritime geographical environment, it makes maritime ** and people-to-people exchanges more convenient. As a result, the people of the Ryukyu Islands and the surrounding areas often interact by sea** and in various formsStay in touch with China. In addition, China and Ryukyu belong to the same Asian cultural circle, and their historical and cultural backgrounds have many similarities, which strengthens the sense of identity and interdependence between the two sides.
Second, as far back as the third century B.C., China had established a channel of communication with the Ryukyus. After thousands of years of vicissitudes, China's diplomatic relations with the Ryukyus gradually deepened, especially during the Tang and Song dynasties, and the economic and cultural exchanges between China and Ryukyu reached a peak. At that time, the Ryukyus, as a tributary system relatively independent of their own kingdom, regularly presented treasures to the Chinese court and imported a large number of advanced technologies, culture, and art from China.
2.The foreign policy of the imperial court in the early Ming Dynasty and its far-reaching influence on Sino-Lauric relations
In the early days of the establishment of the Ming Dynasty, in order to maintain border stability and protect domestic economic security, the Ming Dynasty adopted a strict self-defense policy and took the initiative to reduce the frequency of contact with the outside worldEven maritime ** and diplomatic exchanges were stopped. However, the Ryukyus were located in the southern waters of the Ming Dynasty's territory, and as such, the Ming Dynasty still maintained a certain level of attention and surveillance over the Ryukyus. The Ming court regarded Ryukyu as a small vassal state of its own country and required Ryukyu to pay regular tribute. By imposing strict supervision over the Ryukyus and tribute, the Ming Dynasty strengthened its political binding power on the Ryukyus, while expanding its control over the Southern Guangdong region.
In the eyes of the Ming court, Ryukyu was regarded as part of the tributary system, and the Ryukyu royal family was given the lofty title of "King of Okinawa"., this title highlights the Ming Dynasty's opposition to LiuThe respect and courtesy of the ball also shows that the status of the Ryukyu Kingdom has been recognized by the Ming Dynasty. The monarchs of the Ryukyu Kingdom and their ranks** were required to pay tribute and submit to the Ming court every year. Through this method, the Ming Dynasty was able to maintain its political influence over the Ryukyus.
3.The form and characteristics of diplomatic exchanges in Sino-Lauric relations in the early Ming Dynasty
In the early Ming Dynasty, the diplomatic exchanges between China and Liuzhou were rich and colorful, mainly covering the following types: first, first, first-class activities; the second is the tributary system; The third is to send envoys to exchange. Among them, ** activities play a crucial role in China-Ryukyu relations. The most advanced exchanges between China and Ryuk are inThe early Ming Dynasty flourished, and the types of goods between the two countries were abundant, such as silk, porcelain, Chinese medicinal materials, fiber products, and so on. Such activities not only promote the prosperity and growth of the economies of the two countries, but also greatly enrich the life vision and way of thinking of the people of the two countries, and promote multi-level cultural exchanges and personnel interaction.
In addition, another important interaction in Sino-Ryukine relations is the tributary system. The Ming Dynasty required the Ryukyu Kingdom to pay regular tribute to the Chinese court and send gifts to the Ming imperial palace. This tributary system largely shows the Ming Dynasty's influence on the Ryukyuspolitical control and status identity, but also tableThe Ming Ryukyu could rely on the protection and support of the Ming Dynasty to guarantee their independence.
After years of diplomatic practice, the Ming Dynasty decided to send an envoy to visit the Ryukyu Kingdom in order to achieve more extensive and in-depth diplomatic communication. In the exchange of envoysThe envoys from China demonstrated the rich Chinese civilization, and the envoys of the Ryukyu Kingdom also brought the unique cultural customs of the Ryukyus back to China. Such exchange activities are not onlyIt has strengthened the understanding between the two countries, and also greatly promoted the diversity and colorfulness of Chinese and Ryukine cultures.
1.The prosperity and development process of Zhongliu**
Zhongliu ** is the commercial transaction interaction between China and Ryukyu in the early years of the Ming Dynasty, and the commercial relationship gradually grew and deepened with the combined effect of policy support and various factors in the early Ming Dynasty.
In the early years of the Ming Dynasty, the interaction between China and Liuzhou continued to grow. On the one hand, this is due to the extensiveness of Chinese civilization in the RyukyusInfiltration, on the other hand, stems from the convenient geographical location of the Ryukyus, which is located in the vast maritime frontier of China. As an independent island nation, Ryukyu has always maintained close cultural and political ties with China, and its aristocrats and merchants are deeply influenced by traditional Chinese gatesCulturally edified, proficient in the use of China's advanced business systems and strategies. In terms of transportation, because Ryukyu is located in the southern tip of China, its transportation network is superior, which makes the trade between China and Ryukyu more convenient.
2.The types of goods in Zhongliu ** and their circulation routes
In Zhongliu**, the types of goods involved are very rich and complete, covering many industries. The goods that China sent to the Ryukyus covered silk, ceramics, copperware, traditional Chinese medicine, various fabrics, and so on. These goods were extremely valuable in the ancient Chinese market, and the Ryukyu Kingdom did reap a lot of benefits through its cooperation with the Ming Dynasty. On the other hand, most of the goods exported to China are seafood, such as pearls, coral, sea cucumbers, shark fins, etc. Such goods are in high demand in the Chinese market, so they occupy a considerable share of the Chinese market.
In the process of Zhongliu **, maritime tradeEasy to dominate. In the early Ming Dynasty, many Ryukyu merchants and Chinese merchants took advantage of the convenience of shipping to complete the transportation and exchange of goods by sea. In order to facilitate the development of business, Ryukyu merchants established numerous guilds and trading halls in the coastal cities of China, and conducted extensive business with merchants from all over the worldAnd in-depth economic and trade exchanges. Fujian, Zhejiang, Guangdong and other places have naturally become the hubs of Zhongliu, and the ports in various regions have also become the main interfaces of Zhongliu.
3.China and Ryukyu have a far-reaching impact on the economies of the two countries
Zhongliu ** has had a profound impact on the economic development of Chinese civilization and the Ryukyu Kingdom.
As far as the Ryukyu Kingdom is concerned, the economy of the Ryukyus has been significantly improved through cooperation with the Ming Dynasty. The Ryukyus received a steady stream of valuable goods and abundant wealth, which were strongly guaranteedThe basic living needs of the people in the country have also greatly promoted the growth of the local market economy. In the process, the Ryukyus' management personnel have accumulated a strong wealth base, which has further improved the economic living standards of the entire Ryukyu society. In addition, Churyu has also played a positive role in promoting the development and improvement of Ryukyu handicrafts and commercial skills, thus making Ryukyu one of the most important commercial centers in East Asia.
The Chinese elements contained in Zhongliu also have many positive feedback on China's economic development. China exports large quantities to the RyukyusHigh-quality products meet their needs, and at the same time, they obtain valuable seafood resources from the Ryukyus. This business interaction has boosted the economic prosperity of the Yangtze River Delta region and the entire southern part of China, especially the coastal areas with which the Ryukyus have frequent contacts. Chinese businessmen through the participation of the Chinese Liu**, into the ...Gong earns considerable profits, which further boosts the prosperity of regional commerce.
In short, in the early Ming Dynasty, Zhongliu exerted a significant economic influence and established a close partnership between the two sides. This kind of tightThe relationship accelerated the spread of Chinese culture in the Ryukyus, andIt further promoted the vigorous development of the Ryukyu economy, and also promoted the economic development of southern China. Don't underestimate China, it will bring material wealth and cultural exchange opportunities for the people of the two countries, and it is bound to have a strong impetus for the social and economic progress of the two places.
1.The spread of Chinese culture in the Ryukyus and its influence
As early as ancient times, Chinese culture has swept openly and openly across the Ryukyu island nations. However, in the early Ming Dynasty, this process was strengthened and deepened at a deeper level.
The first factor is that the fruits of Chinese civilization and the treasures of knowledge arrived at the borders of the Ryukyus through numerous envoys to China and merchant transactions. The kings and subjects there regarded Oriental China as a sacred place with both a cultural heritage core and the crystallization of wisdom, and devoted themselves to the study and application of the profound Chinese culture.
At that time, the Ryukyu nobles and literati were all eager for the opportunity to take the lead and set foot in the Central Plains to absorb the true meaning of Confucian philosophy, ancient historical books, and various literary and artistic techniques. On their way back from China, they not only brought back a rich treasure trove of knowledge, but also opened a way for the integration of Ryukyu society and civilization into Chinese wisdom, creating a deep and symbolic union.
Subsequently, due to the continuous influx of Chinese books and various artistic treasures into the Ryukyus, the country was able to gradually absorb a huge number of silk fabrics, porcelain utensils, books and documents, calligraphy, painting, art and so on through the link with China. These wonderful cultural and artistic products have washed away the cultural and artistic territory of the Ryukyus like a flood, and they have been even more stimulatedThe people of the Ryukyus have a strong interest in Chinese culture and in-depth knowledge.
2.The influence of Ryukyu culture on China and its own connotation are demonstrated
Not only in a one-way transmission cycle, Ryukyu culture has also brought far-reaching influences to Chinese mainland that cannot be ignored, and has played a pivotal role in the process.
First of all, the etiquette and morality of the Ryukyus deeply influenced and shaped the values of the people. The high esteem of etiquette and morality in the royal kingdom there runs through the code of conduct of loyalty, filial piety, respect, and affinity. This kind of high-quality behavior and ethics accompanied the prosperity of the commodity economy and the increasing frequency of tributary exchanges, quietly infiltrated the Chinese Empire, especially in the prosperous southern region, and the imprint of Ryukyu culture can be clearly seen.
Secondly, the art of Ryukyu's **, dance and painting has attracted the attention of Chinese culture with its unique and exquisite performance form and beautiful style. The ** and dance there, from the ingenious choreography, smooth dance and other details, it is not difficult to feel the care and appreciation of Chinese culture.
The rich Chinese cultural elite is always happy to incorporate the wonderful elements of Ryukyu ** dance into their works. In addition, Ryukyu painting art and practical ornaments have also made achievements in the field of Chinese art, and have been influential in the history of Chinese art.
3.The spread of religion and the influence of religious beliefs on culture
Religious propagation is an important part of Sino-Lunar relations, which not only has a significant impact on the formation of cultural beliefs, but also establishes a firm position in the lives and hearts of the people.
In the early Ming Dynasty, the people of the Ryukyus generally believed in Confucianism and Buddhism in China. However, with the vigorous development of exchanges with China, Buddhism naturally spread in Liuligong and was highly respected by people from all walks of life. In order to promote religious exchanges and harmony between the two countries, many Chinese Buddhist practitioners have also visited Liuli Palace to teach teachings to the public. At the same time, the Ryukyu belief system has had a positive impact on the knowledge and understanding of China. Some of the Shinto beliefs and witchcraft traditions belonging to Ryukyu have found solace and peace in the hearts of many Chinese, and have become an integral part of Chinese folk beliefs.
The spread of religion is not limited to beliefs, but also encompasses itThere is a wide range of interaction between religious ceremonies and cultural activities. The rituals and grand celebrations of the Ryukyus have stimulated the desire of students from China and at home and abroad to explore and research because of their unique materials and styles.
These various religious ceremonies and celebrations have deepened the influence and communication between Chinese culture and Ryukyu culture.
Cultural exchanges and religious propagation between China and Liuzhou played a key role in connecting the early Ming Dynasty. The spread and reception of Chinese culture in the RyukyusIt has effectively promoted the diversified development and in-depth integration of Ryukyu culture. At the same time, Ryukyu culture has also brought recognition and perception to China, accelerating the lushness and brilliance of Chinese cultureBright and bright. Religious dissemination has deepened the religious beliefs and cultural traditions of China and the West, and further promoted the exchanges, mutual learning and in-depth integration of Chinese culture and Ryukyu culture. The frequent and diversified cultural exchanges and religious dissemination of China-Ryukyu relations have undoubtedly opened up a rich and colorful spiritual home and the sharing of valuable cultural heritage resources for friends from all walks of life in the two countries.
1.* Analysis of the policy adjustment of China-Ryu relations and the mechanism of influence on the interaction between the two countries
In the early historical stage of the Ming Dynasty, the policy-oriented adjustment of the relationship between China and Liuliu had a certain degree of influence on the political exchanges between the two sides. Specifically, the Ryukyus were initially vassal states of the Ming Dynasty and had a close political alliance with their monarchy, but over time, the Ming Dynasty gradually adjusted the way this policy operated. The shift from direct control to indirect control of the Ryukyus marked the Ming regime's recognition and concern for the geostrategic importance of the southern seas.
However, it should be noted that this policy adjustment was not set in stone, and the Ming Dynasty later re-examined the status of the Ryukyus, believing that full integration into the management system was unrealistic and difficult, and adopted a more flexible strategy, still treating the Ryukyus as an independent kingdom and maintaining the original diplomatic and economic exchanges.
2.The in-depth revelation of the influence of the evolution of Sino-Lunar relations on the Ming regime
It is important to note that in this section we will discuss how the interconnectedness between China and Liuzhou affected the Ming regime, especially the construction and regulation of the strategic environment in the southern seas. Specifically, with the help of commercial transactions and diplomatic interaction with the Ryukyus, the Ming Dynasty succeeded in exercising proper control over the Nanhai Zhudao and strengthening its control over the southern seas.
This move is conducive to balancing various conflicts of interest within the Ming Dynasty system, so as to maintain the security and stability of the southern seas; At the same time, Sino-Liuzhou relations also had a positive impact on the diplomatic strategic planning of the Ming Dynasty. With the Ryukyus as a relatively independent island nation and close relations with China, the Ming Dynasty used the influence of the Ryukyus to expand its reputation in Southeast Asia. The Ryukyus, a staunch ally and important partner of China, played a crucial supporting role at the geopolitical level.
3.An in-depth analysis of the evolution of the current situation of the Sino-Ryukine hegemony by the interactive adjustment of geographical environment and its influencing effect
We mentioned in the previous article that the chain reaction caused by the adjustment of geopolitical relations in Sino-Ryukine relations is also worthy of our in-depth understanding, which undoubtedly has had a significant impact on the current situation of China-Ryukyu hegemony. In the early years of the Ming Dynasty, the relationship between China and Ryukyu was quite solid, and Chinese culture had already penetrated into the Ryukyus, and in addition, China's control over the Ryukyus was deepening.
But with the passage of time, different forces have also set their sights on the South China Seas, so the signs of Sino-Ryukyu hegemony have begun to emerge. Among them, the threat from Japan is also intensifying. In this context, the Ming Dynasty** realized Japan's ambition to hold the Ryukyus hostage, so it took measures to strengthen the protection of the Ryukyus and set up military bases there. All of these measures demonstrate the changing geopolitical relations and the spread of tensions in the field of hegemony between China and Ryukyu.
In addition, it should be noted that the hegemonic rise of the Western European powers has had an impact on this. As the European powers began to explore and colonize the region, they began to set foot in East Asia, and of course in the southern seas. This has brought major changes to the originally relatively primitive and stable geopolitical pattern, bringing new challenges and impacts to the originally complex and delicate Sino-Ryukine relations.
About this period of historyThe impact of the adjustment of political and geopolitical relations on China-Ryukrainian-Continental relations is the key to our in-depth understanding of the complexity of Sino-Lunar relations. Although we cannot exhaust the profound impact of each thread on Sino-Lunar relations here, it is also an important part of studying the evolution of Sino-Lunar relations in the early Ming Dynasty. It is precisely because of the combined effect of the above factors that the complex political pattern of China-Ryukine relations has been shaped, and the important geopolitical relations between the two countries have been profoundly affected.
1.The profound impact of Sino-Ryukine relations on the social structure and identity of the two countries
The evolution of Sino-Ryukine relations and their development have had a profound impact on the social structure and identity of both countries.
First and foremost, the relationship between China and Liuzhou has strengthened the social ties between the two countries, as well as the flow and exchange of information. Including but not limited to multiple forms such as ** activities, talent dynamics and knowledge transfer, Chinese civilization and Ryukyu culture are being organically integrated within the societies of both sides. This deep integration makes the social structures of the two sides more diverse and complex, and the relationship between the various social groups is more compact and inseparable.
Second, Sino-Lunar relations have had a great impact on local identity. In the Ryukyu region, under the influence of Chinese cultural infiltration, some people are enthusiastic about the recognition and identification of their Chinese identity.
Of particular interest are the aristocrats and scholars in the Ryukyus, many of whom lived their lives around Confucianism and saw Chinese culture as the cornerstone of their identity. Through the study of Chinese etiquette, traditional culture and scientific knowledge, they further strengthened their emotional sustenance and identity with China.
On the other hand, the relationship between China and Ryu has also had a non-negligible impact on China's social structure and identity. The elite of Chinese society frequently carried out academic research and exchange activities in the Ryukyus, actively borrowed and absorbed the culture and knowledge of the Ryukyus, and brought these achievements back to China.
The experience of these advanced figures not only brings back the influence of Ryukyu culture on China, but more importantly, their own profound experience of Ryukyu identity. It is these people who form a bridge of cultural exchange between China and Liuzhou, and help to reform the social structure and identity of our country.
2.Cultural integration and social transformation
The cultural convergence fostered by the Sino-Ryukine relationship has had profound and lasting changes in both societies.
First of all, the convergence of cultures directly triggers the evolution of social values. The exchanges, mutual learning and in-depth integration of Chinese culture and Ryukyu culture have made the values of the two societies fully reflect the characteristics of mutual influence and integration. Confucianism emphasizes values such as loyalty, filial piety, courtesy, etiquette, and ethics, while Ryukyu native values also respect the principles of loyalty, respect for others, and peaceful coexistence. These value systems, through the common inheritance and development of both parties, have a profound impact on the moral responsibility and code of conduct of society.
Secondly, the performance of cultural integration at the level of social institutions is also significant. In the history of the Ryukyus, the local social system was influenced by the political system of the country and gradually converged with the bureaucratic management model of the country. Against this backdrop, the Ryukyu scholar class devoted themselves to learning Japan's etiquette and political system, thereby enhancing their recognition and pursuit of China's social system. This phenomenon has promoted the Ryukyus to reform itself at the level of political system and administration, and has optimized and stabilized the operation order of the entire society.
3.Cultural exchange and the transformation of artistic style
The in-depth exchange and influence of Sino-Continental relations on cultural aspects is also reflected in the changes in artistic styles.
In the field of art, Chinese culture has had a profound and lasting impact on Ryukyu painting, **, and literary creation. In terms of painting techniques and materials, Chinese artistic and cultural elements have been widely introduced to the Ryukyus, and various methods and ideas have been retained and developed in the Ryukyus, thus forming a unique Ryukyu painting art style. In terms of **, Ryukyu ** has also been influenced and inspired by our country ** to a certain extent, and then evolved into a unique **expression and representation; Similarly, in the field of literature, excellent Chinese literary works have also been widely disseminated and promoted in the Ryukyus, which has played an enlightening and promoting role in local literary creation and creative style.
Conversely, the culture of the Ryukyus has also had a certain influence on the artistic landscape of our country, so that the art works and handicrafts of the Ryukyus have won high appreciation in our country, and these Ryukyu skills and styles have been successfully integrated into the treasures of our art and culture.
Although there is a broad consensus that the relationship between China and the Ryukyus is of high historical and cultural value, there is still much to be improved in the field of related research. First and foremost, the scope of research is limited by the number and validity of historical documents and materials, especially in the study of the internal situation in the Ryukyus. As a result, many aspects of Sino-Ryukine relations, such as political intervention, economic influence, and religious shock, are in urgent need of a more in-depth and comprehensive understanding.
In order to deal with these research problems, the following dimensions can be analyzed and discussed. First of all, efforts should be made to excavate and organize historical documents and materials related to the Ryukyus in order to fill the existing research gaps. Secondly, it uses an interdisciplinary research strategy to integrate the perspectives of history, cultural studies, anthropology, art and other disciplines to carry out a nuanced analysis of the multiple aspects of China-Ryukrainian relations.
Finally, through field research and fieldwork, we can comprehensively grasp the social composition and cultural characteristics of the Ryukyus, as well as the actual influence of Sino-Ryukyu relations in this area.
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