Not all of China's geography acted as barriers. Some of their natural features provided fertile soil and safe drinking water. China has two major river systems - the Yellow River (Huang He) and the Yangtze River (Long River). 

The Yangtze (Long River) is the third longest river in the world. It is about 4000 miles long. It floods each year and leaves fertile soil along the banks. The Yangtze River has high banks, which keeps homes safe from the annual flooding. 

The Huang He (Yellow River) is about 3000 miles long. It also floods each year. The banks along the Huang He River are low. Civilization in ancient China began along the Yellow River about 5000 years ago. 

These early people called all rivers in China by the nickname "The Great Sorrow".  That is because each year during the flood season, all homes along the Huang He River were destroyed. Each year, the ancient Chinese had to rebuild their homes and their lives. 

Over time, people learned the techniques of flood control. The rich began to built their homes high above the river.

Free Clipart

Free Templates