Page 42 - A History of the World in 25 Cities
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The Ming dynasty made the Great Wall much stronger than ever before, to keep out invaders at China’s northern border.
14OO
The canal transported grain, salt and other essential goods, and connected Beijing with the south of China.
In the 1400s, Beijing was the capital of China and one of the biggest cities in the world. China was ruled by the Ming dynasty, whose palace complex lay at the heart of their capital. This map shows the Imperial City, including the palace complex or ‘Forbidden City’, which no ordinary person was allowed to enter on pain of death.
Drums and bells announced the time of day.
This gate faced south, which was considered to be the most important direction.
The emperor came here to make offerings to the gods for a good harvest.
