Ancient Names of China

China, a nation with a rich and intricate history that spans thousands of years, was known by several names throughout its ancient past. The historical nomenclature of China reflects its evolving political, cultural, and geographical contexts, providing a fascinating insight into the civilization that shaped much of East Asia.

Zhongguo (中国): The term “Zhongguo,” which translates to “Middle Kingdom” or “Central State,” is one of the most enduring and commonly used names for China. This name emerged during the late Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE) and was used to refer to the central region of the Chinese world as understood by its inhabitants. The name reflects the ancient Chinese worldview, wherein China was considered the cultural and political center of civilization, surrounded by “barbarian” lands. Despite its deep historical roots, “Zhongguo” was only officially adopted as the standard name for the country in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly during the Republican era and the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949.
Hua Xia (华夏): Before “Zhongguo” became prevalent, China was known as “Hua Xia” or “Huaxia.” This name was associated with the early Han Chinese civilization and is often used to refer to the people and culture of the central plains during the Zhou and Han dynasties. “Huaxia” is derived from the name of the Xia Dynasty (circa 2070–1600 BCE), one of the earliest Chinese dynasties, and signifies the ethnic and cultural unity of the Han Chinese. The term “Hua Xia” captures the historical essence of a unified cultural identity that persisted through various dynastic changes.
Tianxia (天下): Another significant ancient term used to describe China is “Tianxia,” which means “All Under Heaven.” This concept is deeply rooted in the Confucian worldview and reflects the belief that the emperor of China was the ruler of the world, overseeing all territories under heaven. The idea of “Tianxia” encompassed not only the physical land but also the moral and cultural influence that the Chinese empire wielded over its neighbors. The term highlighted the imperial ideology and the centrality of the Chinese state in East Asian geopolitics.
Zhongtu (中土): “Zhongtu,” meaning “Central Land,” was another term used to refer to China, emphasizing its geographical centrality within the known world of the ancient Chinese. This designation aligns with the idea of China as the cultural and political center, much like the notion of “Zhongguo.” “Zhongtu” was particularly used during the Han Dynasty and the subsequent periods to assert the importance of China’s core territories in relation to the surrounding regions.
Qin (秦): The name “Qin” is most famously associated with the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE), which marked the first unified imperial dynasty of China. The term “Qin” also refers to the historical region in the western part of China, which was the homeland of the ruling Qin family. The name “Qin” was instrumental in the creation of the term “China,” which is derived from the Persian and other Western languages’ adaptations of “Qin.” The Qin Dynasty’s impact on Chinese history was profound, setting the stage for the subsequent imperial eras and contributing to the legacy of the Chinese nation.
Shenzhou (神州): “Shenzhou,” meaning “Divine Land,” is another ancient name for China that carries a sense of reverence and spiritual significance. This term was used in classical literature and historical texts to evoke a sense of divine favor and the sacred nature of the land. “Shenzhou” reflects the integration of spiritual and cultural elements in the perception of China’s historical and geographical identity.

Historical Context and Evolution

The evolution of these names illustrates the shifting perspectives and administrative structures of ancient China. Early Chinese civilization was characterized by a series of dynastic changes, each contributing to the broader historical narrative of the region. The Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties laid the foundational cultural and political frameworks that influenced subsequent periods.

The Qin Dynasty’s unification of China in 221 BCE marked a significant turning point, establishing a centralized bureaucracy and standardized systems that would shape the future of the nation. The influence of the Qin Dynasty extended beyond its brief rule, with the term “Qin” being adopted by Western cultures to denote the entire civilization.

The Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE) further solidified the notion of a unified Chinese identity, integrating various regional cultures and promoting the idea of “Huaxia.” The Han era was instrumental in consolidating the cultural and historical identity of China, setting the stage for the development of the “Zhongguo” concept.

Throughout the Tang (618–907 CE) and Song (960–1279 CE) dynasties, China continued to expand its influence, both culturally and politically, reinforcing the idea of “Tianxia” and the centrality of the Chinese state in East Asian geopolitics. The Ming (1368–1644 CE) and Qing (1644–1912 CE) dynasties continued to emphasize the centrality of China, contributing to the enduring legacy of the various names used to describe the nation.

Conclusion

The ancient names of China provide valuable insights into the evolution of the country’s self-perception and its interactions with the wider world. From “Zhongguo” and “Huaxia” to “Tianxia” and “Shenzhou,” these terms reflect the complex tapestry of China’s historical and cultural development. The names used to describe China have not only shaped its historical identity but have also influenced how the country is perceived both within and beyond its borders. As China continues to evolve, the historical names serve as a reminder of the rich heritage and enduring legacy of one of the world’s oldest continuous civilizations.