History of Fujian(1)

Fujian was called the Region of Minyue (Seven Min Tribes) in ancient times. During Qing Dynasty, the prefecture of Min-Zhong was launched to govern Dongye (now called Fuzhou). In the 2nd year of Shi-Yuan (Emperor Zhao) of Western Han (85 B.C.), the name was changed into Prefecture Ye, and Dong-Hou-Guan during Han Dynasty. In the 21st year of Kai-Yuan reign of Tang Dynasty (year 733), the post of Fujian Military Commissioner was officially launched, and the province was hereafter called Fujian. During Southern Song, there are one prefecture, five subprefectures and two military prefectures, and Fujian was therefore also called "Eight Min". Fujian has been an important culture center and trade center in the history, i.e., "Maritime Silk Road", starting-point of Zheng He's voyages and Islam base. Fuzhou and Xiamen have also been listed as one of five treaty ports, while the Port of Mawei was the cradle for the modern shipbuilding industry and scientific talents.