Beijing
Geography
Beijing, officially known as the People's Republic of China's capital, is one of the world's leading centers for politics, economy, and culture. It is also one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals due to its rich historical heritage.
History
The city's history dates back three millennia. As the last of the Four Great Ancient Capitals, Beijing has been the political center of the country for most of the past eight centuries.
Ancient and Imperial Era
The earliest traces of human habitation in the Beijing municipality were found in the caves of Dragon Bone Hill near the village of Zhoukoudian in Fangshan District, where the Peking Man lived.
Republic of China
In the early 20th century, following the Xinhai Revolution that overthrew the Qing Dynasty and established the Republic of China, Beijing underwent significant cultural and societal changes.
People's Republic of China
Following the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, Beijing was declared the capital city. The city has since then experienced rapid development and urbanization.
Government and Politics
Beijing is the political center of the country, housing all of China's paramount leaders. The government of Beijing is structured in a dual party-government system like all other governing institutions in mainland China.
Economy
As one of the three "command heights" of the Chinese economy, Beijing is a hub for the country's transportation, manufacturing, and technology sectors.
Culture
Beijing is a center for culture and arts in China, with a rich history that has cultivated a diverse and vibrant cultural scene.
Education
Beijing houses several of China's most prestigious universities, including Peking and Tsinghua, making it a major hub for education and research.
Transportation
Beijing is a major hub for the national highway, expressway, railway, and high-speed rail networks.
Sports
Beijing has a rich sports culture and has hosted numerous significant sporting events, including the 2008 Summer Olympics and the 2022 Winter Olympics.