SuaveG – The Gentle Path

Chinese mythology, folktales, and literature

Dayuan

  • Reconnecting the West: Zhang Qian’s Final Mission [Western Han]

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    This article tells Zhang Qian’s final mission to the Western Regions. After Han’s victories over the Xiongnu led by Wei Qing and Huo Qubing, Zhang was sent to ally with Wusun and other states. Though Wusun hesitated, his deputies opened ties across Central Asia, laying the foundation for the Silk Road.

  • The Silk Road Pioneer: Zhang Qian [Western Han]

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    This article honors Zhang Qian, the Silk Road pioneer. Sent by Emperor Wu to ally with the Yuezhi against the Xiongnu, he endured 13 years of captivity and hardship. Though he failed to form the alliance, his explorations opened Central Asia to China, laying the groundwork for the legendary Silk Road.