Why Did China Call Themselves The Middle Kingdom

Alright, let's delve into the historical and cultural reasons behind China's self-designation as the "Middle Kingdom," or Zhongguo (中國). This wasn't just a geographical claim; it was a profound statement about China's worldview, its perceived centrality in the world order, and its unique cultural identity.

Introduction

For millennia, China has stood as a civilization of immense influence, shaping the course of history across East Asia and beyond. One of the most enduring aspects of Chinese identity is the name the country adopted for itself: Zhongguo (中國), often translated as the "Middle Kingdom" or "Central Country." This wasn't simply a label; it was a reflection of a deeply ingrained worldview that positioned China at the very heart of civilization, both geographically and culturally. Understanding the reasons behind this self-designation offers a fascinating window into Chinese history, philosophy, and its interactions with the wider world.

The concept of Zhongguo goes far beyond mere geography. It embodies a complex blend of political ideology, cultural superiority, and a hierarchical understanding of the world order. To the Chinese, their land was not just in the middle of the earth, but at the center of a civilized world that radiated outwards from the imperial court. This idea had a profound impact on China's foreign policy, its relationships with neighboring countries, and its overall sense of national identity.

The Geographical Argument: A Land Set Apart

One of the most straightforward interpretations of "Middle Kingdom" stems from China's geographical position and its perceived isolation. Surrounded by natural barriers like the Himalayan Mountains to the southwest, vast deserts to the north and west, and the Pacific Ocean to the east, China developed in relative isolation for much of its early history.

• Natural Barriers: These geographical features acted as a buffer, limiting interactions with other major civilizations and fostering a sense of uniqueness. The mountains, deserts, and ocean made travel and communication difficult, reinforcing the idea that China was a world unto itself.
• Fertile Heartland: Within these natural boundaries lay a fertile heartland, fed by major rivers like the Yellow River and the Yangtze River. This allowed for the development of a thriving agricultural society, capable of supporting a large population and complex social structures.

This combination of isolation and agricultural abundance contributed to a sense of self-sufficiency and distinctiveness. The Chinese people saw their land as a self-contained world, separate from and superior to the "barbarian" lands beyond its borders.

The Cultural Argument: The Center of Civilization

However, the concept of Zhongguo goes far beyond mere geographical location. It also reflects a deeply ingrained belief in China's cultural and moral superiority. The Chinese saw their civilization as the most advanced and sophisticated in the world, the source of all true culture and enlightenment.

• Confucianism: Central to this belief was Confucianism, a philosophy that emphasized social harmony, ethical conduct, and the importance of education. Confucianism provided a framework for social order and governance, and it was seen as the key to a prosperous and well-ordered society. The Chinese believed that their adherence to Confucian principles made them morally superior to other cultures.
• The Mandate of Heaven: Another important concept was the Mandate of Heaven, which legitimized the rule of the emperor. According to this doctrine, the emperor was chosen by the gods to rule, but only as long as he ruled justly and wisely. If the emperor became corrupt or incompetent, the Mandate of Heaven could be withdrawn, leading to rebellion and the rise of a new dynasty. This belief reinforced the idea that China was divinely ordained to be the center of the world.
• Technological Advancements: China's technological advancements also contributed to its sense of superiority. From the invention of paper and printing to the development of gunpowder and the compass, China was a leader in innovation for centuries. These advancements not only improved the lives of the Chinese people but also reinforced their belief in their own ingenuity and cultural superiority.

The Political Argument: The Imperial Court as the Axis of the World

The idea of Zhongguo also had important political implications. The imperial court in China was seen as the center of the world, the point from which all power and authority radiated outwards. Neighboring countries were expected to pay tribute to the emperor, acknowledging his supreme authority and their subordinate status.

• The Tributary System: This system of tributary relations was a key feature of China's foreign policy for centuries. Neighboring countries would send envoys to the Chinese court, bearing gifts and performing rituals that demonstrated their submission to the emperor. In return, the emperor would bestow gifts upon the envoys and grant them access to Chinese markets. This system not only reinforced China's political dominance but also provided economic benefits to both sides.
• The Emperor as the Son of Heaven: The emperor's role as the "Son of Heaven" further reinforced his central position in the world order. As the intermediary between heaven and earth, the emperor was responsible for maintaining cosmic harmony and ensuring the well-being of his people. This gave him immense power and authority, both within China and in relation to other countries.
• Cultural Influence: China's cultural influence also extended far beyond its borders. Chinese writing, philosophy, and art were adopted by neighboring countries like Korea, Japan, and Vietnam, further solidifying China's position as the center of civilization.

Historical Evolution of the Concept

The concept of Zhongguo evolved over time, reflecting changes in China's political and social landscape.

• Early Origins: The earliest evidence of the concept can be traced back to the Zhou dynasty (c. 1046-256 BCE), when the term "Zhongguo" began to appear in historical texts. At this time, it referred more to the central states of the Zhou kingdom, as opposed to the surrounding "barbarian" tribes.
• The Qin and Han Dynasties: The Qin dynasty (221-206 BCE) unified China for the first time, establishing a centralized empire and further solidifying the idea of China as a single, unified entity. The Han dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE) built upon this foundation, expanding China's territory and influence and promoting Confucianism as the state ideology.
• The Tang Dynasty: The Tang dynasty (618-907 CE) is often considered the golden age of Chinese civilization. During this period, China experienced unprecedented economic growth, cultural flourishing, and territorial expansion. The Tang dynasty's cosmopolitan atmosphere attracted traders and scholars from all over the world, further reinforcing China's sense of centrality.
• The Mongol Yuan Dynasty: The Mongol Yuan dynasty (1271-1368) was a period of foreign rule in China. While the Mongols adopted many aspects of Chinese culture, they also maintained their own distinct identity. This period challenged the traditional concept of Zhongguo, as China was now part of a larger Mongol empire.
• The Ming and Qing Dynasties: The Ming dynasty (1368-1644) restored native Chinese rule and reaffirmed the traditional concept of Zhongguo. The Qing dynasty (1644-1912), while also a period of foreign rule (by the Manchus), largely adopted Chinese culture and institutions. However, the Qing dynasty also faced increasing pressure from Western powers, leading to a gradual erosion of China's sense of centrality.

The Impact of Western Contact

The arrival of Western powers in the 19th century had a profound impact on China's self-image and its understanding of its place in the world. The Opium Wars and subsequent unequal treaties exposed China's military weakness and shattered the myth of its invincibility.

• The End of the Tributary System: The Western powers forced China to abandon the tributary system and to engage in diplomatic relations on an equal footing. This undermined China's traditional role as the center of the world order.
• The Rise of Nationalism: The humiliation of Western imperialism led to the rise of Chinese nationalism, as intellectuals and reformers sought to modernize China and restore its former glory. Some nationalists rejected the traditional concept of Zhongguo, arguing that it was outdated and irrelevant in the modern world. Others sought to reinterpret it, emphasizing China's unique cultural heritage and its potential to become a leading power in the 20th century.

The Legacy of Zhongguo in Modern China

Despite the challenges of the modern era, the concept of Zhongguo continues to resonate in contemporary China. While China no longer claims to be the center of the world in the same way as in the past, it still sees itself as a major power with a unique cultural identity and a special role to play in global affairs.

• National Pride: The idea of Zhongguo continues to inspire national pride and a sense of cultural distinctiveness. The Chinese people are proud of their long and rich history, their cultural achievements, and their economic success.
• The "Chinese Dream": The current Chinese government has promoted the concept of the "Chinese Dream," which aims to achieve the "great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation." This vision draws upon the historical concept of Zhongguo, emphasizing China's potential to reclaim its former glory and to become a leading power in the world once again.
• Soft Power: China is also increasingly using its cultural influence, or "soft power," to promote its image and interests abroad. This includes promoting Chinese language and culture through Confucius Institutes, supporting Chinese films and television programs, and engaging in cultural diplomacy.

Conclusion

The reasons why China called itself the Middle Kingdom are multifaceted, reflecting a complex interplay of geographical factors, cultural beliefs, and political ambitions. It wasn't just about being in the center of a map; it was about being at the center of civilization, the source of all true culture and enlightenment. While the concept of Zhongguo has evolved over time, it continues to resonate in modern China, shaping its national identity and its approach to the world. The historical context provides a critical lens through which to understand China's present-day actions and aspirations on the global stage. Understanding this historical context is crucial for navigating the complexities of China's role in the 21st century.

The idea of the "Middle Kingdom" isn't a simple claim of geographical centrality; it's a statement about cultural and political importance that has shaped China's identity and its interactions with the world for centuries. It underscores the importance of understanding historical narratives in shaping national identity and foreign policy. How will China reconcile its historical self-perception with the realities of a multipolar world? The answer to that question will profoundly impact the future of global politics.