One of Earth’s most magnificent structures was built in the East Asian nation of China many centuries ago. It’s called the Great Wall. It dates back to the Ming Dynasty, which lasted from 1368 to 1644. (Dynasties were ruling families that passed power from one generation to the next.)
Like earlier walls in China, the Great Wall was built to keep out invaders. These tribes wandered the dry grasslands north of China’s borders. They were jealous of the Chinese way of life. Riding into cities on horseback, they stole grain, pottery, fabrics, and other goods.
The Great Wall winds over mountain peaks and plunges into deep valleys. It even crosses wide rivers. Parts of it are now in ruins or have totally disappeared. But for a while, it was home to guard stations, signal towers, and even grand temples.
Let’s go on a fascinating trip to one of the wonders of the world.
