Explain why the Great Wall of China was built to protect against invaders.

First reason: Protection against barbarian invasions.

The Great Wall of China was mainly built to protect against barbarian invasions from the north. This massive structure, built and rebuilt over several centuries, served as a physical barrier to prevent incursions from nomadic tribes and foreign armies. Indeed, the different Chinese dynasties saw the construction of the Great Wall as an effective way to defend their territory against attacks from bordering regions.

Nomads from the steppes, such as the Mongols, the Xiongnu, and other peoples from the central Asian steppes, posed a constant threat to imperial China. The wall provided strategic protection by slowing down the advance of invaders and facilitating border surveillance. In addition, watchtowers and fortifications scattered along the wall allowed for quick communication in case of imminent attack, thus strengthening the defense of Chinese territory.

Therefore, the Great Wall played a crucial role in protecting China against barbarian invasions, ensuring the safety of inhabitants living near the northern border and preserving the integrity of the imperial territory.

Second reason: Control of borders and trade exchanges

The Great Wall of China was also built to ensure border control and regulate commercial exchanges. In addition to serving as a barrier against invasions, the wall acted as a symbolic border between China and outer territories. Its construction helped limit the movements of nomadic populations and unauthorized merchants.

Border control by the Great Wall ensured the safety of the inhabitants living inside Chinese territory and protected the country's economic interests. Guard posts along the wall were responsible for monitoring the borders and regulating commercial exchanges with neighboring regions.

The wall facilitated the collection of taxes on goods entering and exiting Chinese territory, thus strengthening the empire's economic control. It also played a role in regulating migratory flows and population movements across borders, contributing to maintaining order and stability within the country.

In summary, beyond its military protection function, the Great Wall of China was an essential instrument for controlling the country's borders, regulating commercial exchanges, and strengthening the sovereignty of the Chinese empire.

Third reason: Affirmation of China's power and greatness.

The Great Wall of China was also built to assert the power and grandeur of the Chinese Empire. Its imposing size and complex construction were used to demonstrate the strength and ability of the Empire to undertake such large-scale projects. In addition to its defensive functions, the wall was a symbol of the greatness and wealth of Chinese civilization. Its monumental construction was a testament to the power of the Empire and its ability to mobilize significant resources to protect its borders. By showing this ability to build such a massive and enduring structure, ancient China sought to command respect and fear among its neighbors and foreign peoples. The Great Wall was therefore much more than just a military fortification: it was also a symbol of the power and grandeur of imperial China.