The Great Wall of China Marian Hilery Rushton

Dimensions Stretches for 4,160 miles About 20 ft wide About 26 feet high The only manmade structure that can be seen with the naked eye from the moon The longest manmade structure ever built. Runs East and West

History Construction started around B.C. Qi, Yan, and Zhao all constructed extensive fortifications to defend their own borders. They made their walls by stamping gravel and earth between board frames. Meant to stand against spears and swords.

History (ctd.) When Qin Shihuang unified China in 221 BC, he began to link up and extend these walls. Gaining the name The “Great” Wall. The Qin Dynasty was protected from the North. Armies were stationed along the wall as a first line of defense against the invading nomadic Hsiung Nu tribes.

Qin Shihuang Profound influence on Chinese history and culture. He wanted to unify all of the states by the powerful political, economic, and military strength of the Qin State. 1 st emperor of a united China.

Construction Took approximately 10 years to complete. Prisoners of war, convicts, soldiers, civilians, and farmers labored to build the Great Wall. Millions died of starvation, disease, and exhaustion during the construction. (2-3 million) Bodies were buried in the foundations or used as part of the wall. The result demonstrates the manifestation of the wisdom and tenacity of the Chinese people.

Materials The mystery of the materials used for construction of the wall is amazing. Clay, stone, willow branches, reeds and sand were used. As well as any materials found nearby.

Juyongguan “North Pass" of Juyongguan pass, known as the Badaling. Was used by the Chinese to protect their land, this section has had many guards to defend China’s capital Beijing. Made of stone and bricks from the hills.

Mutianyu Great Wall Section of the Great Wall Located in Huairou County, Beijing. 22 km long, is the longest section that is restored and open to tourists.

Reconstruction Bricks were not used until the middle of the Ming Dynasty ( ) Bricks were more convenient because of their light weight. This made construction quicker. They also could hold more weight. Tiles, lime, and stone.

Crosses loess plateaus, mountains, deserts, rivers, and valleys. It passes through 5 provinces and 2 autonomous regions.

Culture Has long been incorporated into Chinese mythology and popular symbolism. Tremendous symbol of the emperor’s might.

Maintenance Any changes to it should be approved by the relevant governmental departments and administration of cultural heritage. Any individuals or groups have not rights to rebuild the Great Wall. Any restoration work on the Great Wall should be under the supervision of Great Wall experts.

The Wall Today Some of the sections are in ruins or even entirely disappeared. Has become a world- renowned tourist attraction. Prone to graffiti and vandalism.