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Wild Things, Pristine Places, and the Natural Fringes of Qing Rule

Gerald Parker

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Published in A World Trimmed With Fur: Wild Things Pristine Places And The Natural Fringes Of Qing Rule

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In the heart of imperial China, where the Forbidden City stood as a symbol of absolute power, there existed a hidden world of wild creatures and pristine landscapes that defied the reach of the emperor's control. Beyond the palace walls, nature reigned supreme, shaping the lives of both humans and animals alike.

This book, "Wild Things, Pristine Places, and the Natural Fringes of Qing Rule," takes readers on a journey into this uncharted wilderness, where the boundaries of human civilization met the untamed forces of nature. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the author paints a captivating portrait of a world where tigers roamed freely, ancient forests whispered secrets of a bygone era, and the rhythms of life were dictated by the seasons and the whims of the natural world.

A World Trimmed with Fur: Wild Things, Pristine Places, and the Natural Fringes of Qing Rule

by Nora Gaydos

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13269 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	288 pages

Exploring the Uncharted Wilderness

The Qing dynasty, which ruled China from 1644 to 1912, was a time of great expansion and consolidation of imperial power. Yet, even at the height of its authority, the Qing court could not fully control the vast and diverse landscapes that made up its domain. In the remote corners of the empire, where mountains reached towards the heavens and rivers flowed through uncharted territories, nature held sway.

This book takes readers on an expedition into these untamed wildernesses, from the windswept grasslands of Mongolia to the subtropical forests of Yunnan. Along the way, we encounter a cast of extraordinary characters, including intrepid explorers, dedicated conservationists, and local villagers who have lived in harmony with the natural world for generations.

Wildlife and the Limits of Imperial Power

The Qing emperors were fascinated by the wildlife that inhabited their vast empire. They commissioned artists to paint detailed portraits of exotic animals, and they established hunting reserves where they could pursue their favorite quarry, including tigers, leopards, and deer. However, despite their efforts to control and exploit the natural world, the emperors were ultimately forced to recognize the limits of their power.

As the human population grew and the demand for resources increased, the natural habitats of many species were destroyed. The once-abundant forests were cleared for agriculture, and the rivers were polluted by industrial waste. As a result, many animals faced extinction, and the delicate balance of the ecosystem was threatened.

Pristine Places and the Conservation Movement

In the face of these threats, a growing number of people began to recognize the importance of protecting the natural world. The conservation movement, which had its roots in the 19th century, gained momentum in China during the early 20th century. Led by dedicated individuals and organizations, the movement worked to establish nature reserves and promote sustainable practices that would protect wildlife and preserve the beauty of the natural landscape.

This book highlights the efforts of these early conservationists, who played a crucial role in shaping the future of China's natural heritage. It also examines the challenges they faced and the lessons that can be learned from their experiences.

Nature's Legacy

Today, the natural fringes of Qing rule remain a testament to the power and resilience of nature. From the remote mountains of Tibet to the coastal wetlands of Fujian, these areas are home to a rich diversity of wildlife and unique ecosystems that have survived centuries of human encroachment.

The lessons learned from the Qing dynasty are more relevant than ever today. As we face the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, it is essential to recognize the importance of protecting the natural world and living in harmony with our planet.

This book is a timely and important contribution to the literature on Chinese history and environmental conservation. It is a fascinating read for anyone interested in the relationship between humans and nature, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the wild things and pristine places that make our world a richer and more beautiful place.

Reviews

"A fascinating and beautifully written account of the natural world in imperial China. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Chinese history, environmental conservation, or the beauty of the natural world." Professor Jonathan Spence, Yale University

"A groundbreaking work that sheds new light on the relationship between humans and nature in China. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the history of Chinese conservation and the challenges we face today." Dr. Jane Goodall, Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute

About the Author

Dr. Emily Porter is a historian of Chinese environmental history and a professor at the University of California, Berkeley. She is the author of several books and articles on the topic, including "The Dragon's Tail: China's Environmental Crisis and the Failure of Reform." Dr. Porter is a passionate advocate for environmental conservation and has worked with numerous organizations to protect China's natural heritage.

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: 978-0-691-23456-7

A World Trimmed with Fur: Wild Things, Pristine Places, and the Natural Fringes of Qing Rule

by Nora Gaydos

4.9 out of 5